Nero Buono is a native grape variety of Lazio whose origins remain unclear; it has been cultivated for centuries, primarily in the Cori area, in the province of Latina, where it expresses its most distinctive character. Its presence has been documented since at least the nineteenth century and is linked to the winemaking tradition of the Lepini Mountains and the Agro Pontino region. The vine exhibits medium-to-high vigour and favours spreading training systems. The leaf is medium to large, pentagonal, generally five-lobed, sometimes seven-lobed, with a V-shaped petiole sinus, a flat blade and a slightly downy underside. The bunch is medium or medium-long, conical and winged, ranging from compact to very compact; the berry is spheroidal, of medium size, with a bluish-black pruinose skin of medium thickness and slightly firm flesh.
The main growing area comprises Cori and, more broadly, certain parts of the province of Latina and the Lazio region, where the grape variety is recognised under various appellations, including Cori and Castelli Romani. The wine has an intense red colour, sometimes deep ruby, with a vinous and fruity profile and a distinctive aromatic character. On the palate, it displays good alcohol content, structure, balance and pleasant harmony. The more ambitious versions benefit from ageing and develop well over time; the ‘Riserva’ designation requires at least twenty-four months’ ageing.