Zesty Pecorino wine aged on its lees, with an attractive texture and an intriguing interplay of sweet and salty notes

This Pecorino wine hails from the hills surrounding Chieti, one of the most ancient settlements in Italy. This small town – founded by the legendary hero Achilles – lies secluded among the low hills which roll towards the Adriatic sea. Fresh and salty sea breezes cool the air, helping the grapes to retain zingy acidity.

Pecurì means “sheep” in the local dialect. Centuries ago, when their sheep were returning from the green mountain pastures, farmers noticed that the herd would stop to nibble on this grape above all the others because of its sweetness.

Winemaking

Grapes for this wine are harvested in September. Pickers have to go through the vineyard several times to select the ripest grapes. After pressing, the grapes are fermented in stainless steel tanks at a controlled temperature. After that, the wine is left in stainless steel tanks to mature on its lees over the winter. This helps to add texture, and develop aromatic complexity. The matured wine is finally bottled in March.

Tasting notes

This Orlandi Pecorino has a pale lemon colour. It bursts with flavours of lime zest, melon and fresh mountain herbs. A sweet undertone of honeysuckle is balanced by lingering notes of minerality and sea salt. This Pecorino wine has a soft texture and body, and a bright citrus finish.

Awards

Luca Maroni – 92 points (2020 vintage) | The WineHunter – Rosso (2019 vintage) | Gambero Rosso Vini d’Italia Guide 2021 – 2 Glasses (2019 vintage) | James Suckling – 91 points (2019 vintage) | Bibenda Guide, 2021 – 4 Grape Bunches (2019 vintage)