The Pecorino grape

History And Origin

Pecorino Romano has roots tracing back to ancient Rome. This cheese was a staple in the diets of Roman soldiers and citizens.

Name Origin: The term “Pecorino” derives from the Italian word “pecora,” meaning sheep. This name reflects the cheese’s primary ingredient: sheep’s milk.

Production Areas:

• Lazio
• Sardinia
• Tuscan Province of Grosseto

Romans highly valued Pecorino Romano for its long shelf life. The cheese was often carried by legions during their campaigns.

Shepherds in Lazio traditionally made Pecorino Romano. Its production methods have largely remained unchanged over the centuries.

During the 19th century, the cheese became popular in the United States. This popularity primarily stemmed from Italian immigrants who brought their culinary traditions with them. Today, Pecorino Romano is enjoyed worldwide.

Viticulture

Pecorino is a white Italian grape variety famous in central Italy. It thrives in regions like Marche, Abruzzo, Tuscany, Umbria, and Lazio.

The grape is believed to be native to Marche. This area offers ideal growing conditions, with fertile soil and favorable climate.

Key regions:

• Marche
• Abruzzo
• Tuscany
• Umbria
• Lazio

Pecorino vines can be found at high altitudes. Some vineyards are located at elevations up to 1000 meters near Arquata del Tronto.

Characteristics:

• High sugar content: This leads to higher alcohol levels in the wine.
• Good acidity: Helps in producing balanced wines.

Pecorino grapes are harvested early to preserve acidity. The grape’s thin skins require careful handling to avoid damage.

Guido Cocci Grifoni played an important role in the development of Pecorino. He discovered old vines and promoted the grape’s cultivation in the 1980s.

The grape is used to produce DOCG wines. These wines are known for their freshness and complexity. The controlled designation of origin guarantees quality.

Pecorino is sensitive to diseases, needing vigilant care. Regular monitoring and preventive measures help maintain vine health.

The grape has gained popularity, with increasing vineyard areas. Growers focus on sustainable practices to protect the environment.

Using organic methods is common, enhancing the grape’s natural flavours. The combination of tradition and innovation drives Pecorino’s success in viticulture.

Wine Characteristics

Pecorino wine is known for its distinctive traits and complexity. It often contains a remarkable structure with prominent herbaceous and floral notes.

Appearance

Pecorino wines usually exhibit a pale straw yellow hue with occasional greenish reflections. This appearance hints at its refreshing nature.

Aroma

The aroma profile includes:

• Citrus fruits (lemon, lime)
• Green apple
• Light floral scents
• Herbaceous hints

Taste

In terms of taste, Pecorino wines are crisp and fresh. The flavour profile often encompasses:

• High acidity: Provides a refreshing taste
• Mineral notes: Adds depth
• Citrus essence: Lemon and lime flavours
• Herbal undertones: Basil or sage-like hints

Texture

Pecorino wines have a notable mouthfeel. Their structure ranges from light to medium-bodied, offering a balanced sensation on the palate.

Alcohol Content

Typically, Pecorino wines possess an alcohol content ranging from 12 to 14%, offering a pleasant warmth without overwhelming the other characteristics.

Versatility

Its versatility makes it suitable for various dishes, from appetizers to main courses. It pairs well with seafood, light pasta dishes, and cheeses.

Aging Potential

Pecorino can be enjoyed young for its fresh qualities or aged to develop more complexity. It is this dual nature that appeals to many wine enthusiasts.

In summary, Pecorino wine boasts a rich aroma, crisp taste, and versatile style, making it a unique choice for wine lovers.

Key Regions

Pecorino cheese is made primarily in central and southern Italy. Each region has its own traditional methods and flavours.

Sardinia

Sardinia is famous for Pecorino Sardo. This cheese is known for its rich, salty taste and firm texture.

Tuscany

Tuscany produces Pecorino Toscano. This variety is softer and milder compared to Sardinian pecorino.

Lazio

Lazio is the home of Pecorino Romano. This hard, salty cheese is often used for grating over dishes.

Abruzzo

In Abruzzo, Pecorino is made with special techniques that give it a unique flavour.

These regions show the variety and specialty of Pecorino cheese across Italy.

Wine Styles

Pecorino wine is known for its dry and mineral characteristics. The wine typically displays straw-yellow colour.

A classic Pecorino wine often has an elegantly floral bouquet, including scents of acacia and jasmine.

Pecorino wines from the Abruzzo and Marche regions are well-balanced with clean mineral and herbal notes. They also have flavours of lemon and white fruits.

Flavor Notes and Bouquet

• Fruit: Lemon, white fruits
• Floral: Acacia, jasmine
• Mineral: Clean, crisp minerality
• Herbal: Subtle herbal notes

Appearance

Pecorino wines usually have a straw-yellow appearance, which makes them visually appealing in the glass.

These wines are made from a hardy white grape that grows well even at high altitudes of up to 3,000 feet (1,000m).

Food Pairings

Pecorino wine pairs well with seafood, pasta, and light appetizers, making it versatile for various dishes.

Notable Producers

Some recognized producers include:

• Marchesi di Cordano: Known for producing balanced wines
• Novaripa: Offers wines with notable lemon notes

Food Pairing

Pecorino cheese and wine can create some delightful combinations. Pecorino wine, with its bright acidity and complex minerality, pairs well with various dishes.

Wine Pairings:

• Sangiovese: With red berry flavours and herbal notes, it contrasts nicely with the savory profile of Pecorino cheese.
• Barbera: This wine’s vibrant acidity and balanced fruitiness make a great match with Pecorino cheese.

Cheese Pairings:

• Crumble Pecorino cheese over roasted vegetables for a savory topping.
• Add it to grilled cheese sandwiches for a salty, nutty twist.
• Use it as a filling in stuffed mushrooms or zucchini flowers.
• Grate it over pizza dough before baking for a flavourful base.

Pasta Sauces:

Pecorino wine also pairs beautifully with leafy green pasta sauces like kale pesto. The acidity of the wine complements the fresh flavours of the sauce.

Additional Pairings:

• Roasted Meats: Pecorino wine can enhance the flavours of pork, especially cured varieties.
• Leafy Vegetables: The bright acidity of the wine works well with dishes like spinach or arugula salads.

These pairings highlight the versatility of Pecorino in both its cheese and wine forms, offering delightful combinations for various meals.

Notable Wines And Tasting Notes

Agricosimo – Pecorino Colline Teatine IGT

• Notes of lemon and mint.
• Hints of herbs on the nose.

Barone di Valforte – Abruzzo DOC

• Aromas of fresh citrus fruits.
• Hints of wildflowers.

Emidio Pepe Pecorino 2019

• Cloudy, medium-deep yellow colour.
• Aromas of papaya, grapefruit, and melon.
• Complex and well-rounded flavour profile.

Contesa 2021 Pecorino (Abruzzo)

• Pale yellow hue.
• Nose evoking toasted cumin seed and freshly baked rolls.
• Tasting notes of yellow plums, Meyer lemons, and a briny palate.

Classic Pecorino Features

• Dry and mineral notes.
• Straw-yellow colour.
• Floral bouquet with scents of acacia and jasmine.

The following table summarizes the key features of these notable wines:

Pecorino wines from regions like Abruzzo and Marche are known for their distinctive characteristics. Each wine offers unique tasting notes, showcasing diverse flavours and aromas ranging from herbal and floral to citrus and tropical fruits. The variety in Pecorino wines provides an intricate tasting experience for wine enthusiasts.

Current Trends And Future Outlook

Pecorino cheese continues to grow in popularity. Food enthusiasts appreciate its distinct flavour, which ranges from mild to sharp, depending on its age.

Increased Global Demand: Pecorino is enjoying a rise in both local and international markets. Export numbers are climbing as more people worldwide develop a taste for this Italian cheese.

Health Trends: As people seek healthier food options, Pecorino’s natural ingredients and high protein content make it an attractive choice. It also contains healthy fats and essential minerals like calcium.

New Applications: Chefs and home cooks are finding innovative ways to use Pecorino. It’s showing up in new recipes, from pasta dishes to salads and even desserts. This creativity enhances its profile and invites new fans.

Sustainability Focus: Producers are increasingly focusing on sustainable farming practices. This includes ethical treatment of sheep, organic farming, and environmentally friendly packaging.

Prices and Availability: While demand grows, prices and availability may fluctuate. Factors like sheep farming challenges, climate change, and economic conditions can impact this. Producers are working to stabilize supply to meet rising demand.

Future Developments: Advances in food technology might introduce new Pecorino varieties. Experimentations with aging processes, flavours, and textures could attract different consumer segments.

These trends suggest a robust future for Pecorino, with expanding opportunities in global cuisines and markets. Whether through traditional or innovative methods, Pecorino’s presence in the culinary world is set to increase.