Pretty much everything is online these days. Why, there’s even some video(s) of Natalino, a few articles, etc., a producer many of you probably have not heard about. But ‘online‘ (i.e. the ‘experience’) only goes so far, obviously.

Meeting the man – the first time was at the Vinnatur fair, and second was at his farm and cellar just a few minutes north of the sleepy little town of Salice Salentino – and his daughter, Mina, for that matter, well it’s an experience, a human experience one can’t possibly forget. Same for these fully transparent, BIO-grown wines, a unique and memorable experience, each and every time/bottle. As it should be.

Human connections are deeply nurtured in the field of shared story – Jean Houston

2017 Azienda Agricola Natalino del Prete Salice Salentino Torre Nova

This 100% Negroamaro wine is from the ripe/warm vintage of 2017. As such, it’s nearly full-bodied; a good well of fresh acidity lifts this in all the right places. Lovely expression of the grape, the land, with flavors and aromas that will probably develop a little more complexity in the short term. Natural cork, 14,5% abv., this is fermented and aged in concrete tanks, and underground concrete vats. Bottled to order, with no sulfur added at bottling. Old school cellar, BIO farming since 2004. One of my favorite winegrowers; wines with soul. recommended+

2017 Azienda Agricola Natalino del Prete Salice Salentino Il Pioniere

A warm, full, and age-worthy effort here in this ripe vintage. The blend of 85% Negroamaro/Malvasia Nera is fermented and aged in concrete tanks, and underground concrete vats. Bottled to order, with no sulfur added at bottling. Old school cellar, BIO farming for nearly 30 years now, and some of the most positive, always smiling attitudes out there, this med/full bodied wine is a good reflection not only of grape, place, vintage, but also the winegrowers, warm and cheery. Most will appreciate it right now, but I’ll continue to let it age a few more years as I see a bit chance for some positive development. 15,0% abv., natural cork. highly recommended

2018 Azienda Agricola Natalino del Prete Negroamaro Anne

I’ve had this twice now since visiting the cantina last month (but with all that’s happened since then, it seems much longer than that). Each time I’ve come away with the exact same thought, same conclusion – this is everything I want in a Negroamaro. Which is another way of saying I’m drinking the grape, and the land. Obviously, to an extent, man’s involved here, too, as there were many decisions made along the way. Fermented and aged in concrete tanks and underground concrete vats. Bottled to order, with no sulfur added at bottling. An absolutely pure expression, and one that would not be liked/preferred by many that enjoy a more commercial experience. Structured, keenly balanced, red-fruited, and packed with soil, and soul. While this will improve with time, it can be enjoyed now with one hour in decanter, too (sediment alert, too). Drink thru 2025; 13,0% abv. is fully resolved. recommended+

I’m looking forward to publishing – hopefully soon – a full record of my lengthy, and unforgettable visit to this farm and cellar.