De Fermo
Abruzzo, Italy
De Fermo sits firmly in that magical crossover point between traditional Italian farming and the modern natural wine world. Based in Abruzzo, Stefano Papetti and Eloisa De Fermo have built a cult reputation by making wines that feel incredibly alive and expressive without ever tipping fully into the chaotic “this might taste like cider and regret” side of low-intervention winemaking.
The estate itself is deeply agricultural, with biodynamic farming, old olive groves, grains and a strong focus on biodiversity sitting alongside the vineyards. The philosophy is very hands-off both in the vineyard and cellar. Native yeasts, minimal sulphur, little intervention and plenty of patience allow the wines to develop naturally and transparently.
Abruzzo’s native grapes play a huge role here, particularly Montepulciano and Pecorino. The wines tend to combine vibrant acidity, texture and mineral tension with savoury earthy depth, often carrying a slightly wild edge that makes them feel energetic rather than polished. Even the richer wines still carry freshness and restraint.
Part of the appeal of De Fermo is how honest the wines feel. Nothing seems over-manipulated or engineered for easy mass appeal. They taste very clearly of place, climate and farming decisions, which explains why natural wine fans and more traditional wine drinkers often end up meeting happily in the middle over a bottle.
