Pecorino is a native white grape variety from the Marche region, traditionally cultivated in the Monti Sibillini area. From there, it spread southward, reaching Abruzzo, where it found excellent conditions to produce wines of outstanding quality, comparable to those from the Marche. According to legend, the name “Pecorino” has pastoral origins, meaning “the wine of the shepherds.” Other whimsical theories suggest that the grape clusters resemble a sheep’s head, or that sheep had a particular fondness for the sweet grapes. However, Pecorino was a recently rediscovered variety, as it had been gradually confined to smaller areas due to its low yield. For a long time, it faced near extinction and was primarily used as a blending grape for lighter wines.
Today, Pecorino has found its moment, with an increasing number of winemakers from both the Marche and Abruzzo regions producing it in pure form, resulting in wines that are intense and full-bodied. Pecorino produces wines with notable structure and distinctly marked aromas, often with a prevalence of herbal notes. Its fruity notes are rich and warm, with hints of yellow flowers, complemented by mineral, iodine, and aromatic herb notes such as thyme and marjoram. On the palate, Pecorino reveals a pronounced acidity and a broad structure, with moderate alcohol content and great persistence. Pecorino pairs excellently with raw seafood and oysters. Its bouquet also complements pasta with pesto, harmonizing with basil, as well as more elaborate white meat dishes.
