PecorinoItaly's hidden mountain treasure with a crisp, aromatic personality!

Don't let the name fool you—Pecorino the grape has nothing to do with the famous sheep's milk cheese, though both share central Italian roots! This ancient white variety nearly vanished in the 20th century but has staged a remarkable comeback in the Marche and Abruzzo regions. The name likely comes from shepherds (pecorari) who grazed their flocks in the vineyards, snacking on the grapes.

Pecorino thrives in high-altitude vineyards, where cool mountain breezes preserve its vibrant acidity and elegant aromatics. Today's winemakers have rediscovered this gem, producing wines that beautifully express Italy's Adriatic coastline terroir. It's become a favorite among sommeliers seeking alternatives to mainstream Italian whites, offering both immediate appeal and surprising aging potential of 5-10 years.

How to recognize this grape variety?

Pecorino dazzles with its aromatic complexity—think white flowers, citrus blossoms, and fresh herbs like thyme and mint. On the palate, expect zesty lemon, green apple, and white peach flavors, often with a distinctive hint of anise or fennel. The texture is beautifully balanced: medium-bodied with crisp acidity and a slightly mineral, almost saline finish that hints at its proximity to the Adriatic Sea.

This versatile wine pairs wonderfully with seafood—especially grilled fish, spaghetti alle vongole, or fritto misto. It's also excellent with fresh cheeses (yes, including pecorino cheese!), vegetable risottos, and herb-crusted chicken. The wine's aromatic intensity and refreshing acidity make it perfect for Mediterranean cuisine and summer dining.

Pecorino production around the world

Here's the list of the top 1 producers of Pecorino worldwide.

Italy

ItalyAbruzzo, Marche, Umbria, Tuscany, Lazio

2 500 ha

Grape variety fact sheet

Italy - Flag

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Italy

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