2023 The Little Wine Company Pecorino

I thought Pecorino was a cheese, but it turns out to be a long-lost variety that has found a new home in the Abruzzo region of Italy. Vinepair tells us that ‘Abruzzo has an almost mystical relationship to the grape, with its higher rocky slopes and lower coastal influence producing some of the most complimentary growing conditions for its “finicky” nature.’ It’s a pleasant white, not unlike a soft Pinot Gris – aromatic with notes of pears and ripe apples finished off with a generous squirt of Meyer lemon. There’s a decent line of acid to keep it neat and tidy. The only Aussie Pecorino I’ve encountered, and very pleasant drinking.

Judging by this wine, Hunter Valley Pecorino might have a future. Stonefruit, lemon butter and a buzzy edge – it’s lightly floral, packed with lemony peach fruit, and then a fun and rather fruity palate, complete with an authentic lemony almond edge. Good fresh drink with flavour.