Nativ was founded by Mario Ercolino, a long-time vintner who with his wife, Roberta, decided to make use of the terroirs and grapes of his homeland, Irpinia. As the name suggests, production centers on the territory, and the 15-hectare estate is dedicated entirely to its native grapes. A considerable part of the vineyards are situated to the southeast, along the ridge that connects the towns of Castelvetere sul Calore to Paternopoli, by way of Montemarano and Castelfranci. In his cutting-edge cellar, Mario crafts a rich and modern range that finds its strong point in the estate crus. Among the wines tasted, the 2021 version of the Fiano Fontana del Sambuco certainly stands out. It opens on a fine bouquet ranging from sensations of hay to notes of lily of the valley and acacia flowers. A fresh citrus touch opens the way to a solid, nicely textured palate tinged with a pleasant, intriguing background of aromatic herbs. The Eremo San Quirico '18, a dark, full-bodied and potent Campi Taurasini, is just as delicious.
