Nativi is a project that was born from an idea developed over years of research based on the development of businesses and local economies, on the importance of the territory and its products, and on the impact that our food choices have on health and the ecosystem.
We want to rediscover our roots, we want to get our hands dirty, reap the fruits that our wonderful land offers us, we want to restore value to our products and our traditions.
The different areas of realization arise from these principles, ranging from the production of DOP oil, to the creation of Iblean herb liqueurs; from free-range breeding of Livorno chickens, to the Spino degli Iblei breeding farm, up to the ambitious project to recover the Sicilian Barbaresca sheep, typically Sicilian breed, unfortunately in danger of extinction.
We have chosen to breed white Leghorn hens. They are free to run and grow on our land, at their complete disposal. The characteristics of the white Leghorn hens are particular: lively and sociable animals, with a slender and elegant body covered with thick feathers
The eggs of the white Leghorn hens are also white, medium or large. They are particularly protein and low in cholesterol
The recovery of the Sicilian Barbary sheep is one of the main activities of the Nativi project. The Barbaresca sheep - whose cradle of origin is that of the Sicilian hinterland - is a breed that comes from the cross between North African sheep (important during the Arab domination in Sicily) and the Sicilian Pinzirita sheep
The Sicilian Barbaresca sheep has existed for a millennium: it is a historical heritage of Sicily, from the 1987 included in the herd book of breeds. Unfortunately it is in danger of extinction
It is a medium to large sized sheep, from the massive physical structure. White head with scattered black spots, long drooping ears. Double attitude, from meat and milk. Considerable dairy yield in the production of sheep cheeses thanks to the high fat content of its milk (once upon a time a fine pecorino was obtained, now gone)
We have set ourselves a goal: recover this wonderful sheep breed thanks to the involvement of young Sicilians interested in zootechnical and agri-food research. In the not too distant future we want to go back to producing that Monorazza Pecorino di Barbaresca, so dear to our ancestors
Now we can count on XX specimens of adult sheep grazing - free - among olive trees, carob trees and dry stone walls. A sheltered area at their complete disposal. To protect them, gather them and bring them back to the shelter there are our beloved sheepdogs that we breed and to which we have dedicated one of our projects
For the production of PDO EVO oil, we start with the olive harvest in the countryside of Ragusa. It is a centuries-old tradition, handed down from generation to generation. Secular as i 300 olive trees that grow strong and luxuriant in the Zannafondo estate
When Sicilian olive oil was born? It is the story of many families who - at the turn of summer - from the city they moved with friends and relatives to the countryside to pick olives. Joy, reunification between family and nature. And then the hard work that brought you back to the origins and traditions: those of Sicily, of Ragusa.
Work and satisfaction to bring extra virgin olive oil to the table, a priceless oil.
This is precisely the spirit with which the Sicilian PDO Native extra virgin olive oil is born, obtained by pressing and cold olives from Ragusa
The Spino degli Iblei is a dog of ancient origins. Traces of its existence can also be found in several nineteenth-century paintings depicting Sicilian herds and pastures
This breed was born in South Eastern Sicily, between the Iblei Mountains. A sturdy dog, obedient and docile used to defend the flocks of sheep. Proud but sociable look hidden by a long and thick hair
The Spino degli Iblei is a confident and courageous dog, the instinct of protection and defense makes it perfect even in the family: he is sweet and affectionate, it can be supportive in pet therapy
The breed was recognized in 2015 by the National Body of Italian Dog lovers (ENCI) and enjoys pedigree
In Nativi we started breeding the Spino degli Iblei starting from our splendid and sweet Anna Spina. The hope is to be able to spread this breed as much as possible as a sheepdog and companion dog
You know what we thought about before creating Nativi liqueurs? Just to homemade herbal liqueurs. We have selected native herbs - some spontaneous, others cultivated and aromatic - collected in the Zannafondo estate in Ragusa.
They are the typical aromas of Sicily, of the Mediterranean scrub: the recipe of our herbal liqueur provides a skilful mix that manages to give life to unique flavors, delight for every palate. They are smells and scents of rocky Sicily that are concentrated in our artisanal liqueurs. A limited production that depends on the life cycles of the herbs and fruits we use
Noble laurel liqueur: antiseptic properties, antioxidants and digestive. Laurel liqueur is made in two variations starting from bay leaves or berries. How to prepare? It is a recipe passed down from generation to generation
The pomegranate elixir is perfect for those who want to taste an aromatic but delicate liqueur. The fruit has been known since ancient times for its beneficial properties: antioxidant, rich in potassium, zinc, of phosphorus, vitamins. In short, there are so many reasons to taste our original pomegranate liqueur recipe
Sage liqueur is a perfect digestive, it is capable of satisfying the most sophisticated tastes
milicuccu rosolio - a very widespread plant in Sicily, whose original name is bagolaro - it is a refined digestive with a Mediterranean taste coming from its berries
Rosemary liqueur - the most intense among aromatic plants - It has a superb taste. The rosemary liqueur recipe is exclusive, unique and gives it that pungent note of Sicilian summer winds
The nepita liqueur is made with this wild mint from the Sicilian areas. This aromatic plant - very similar to oregano in shape and flavor - it turns into a perfect digestive for summer evenings (and not only!)
The basil liqueur has an original family recipe. its taste fully recalls the flavors of typical Italian cuisine. Just one sip is enough to feel embraced by its scent and the genuine freshness typical of this Italian aroma