Pecorello

The Pecorello grape is a lesser-known but increasingly appreciated white grape variety native to the Calabria region, in southern Italy, particularly thriving in the province of Cosenza. This minor varietal has been cultivated locally since at least the late 19th century, where it has held a quiet yet enduring presence in the region’s viticultural traditions.

While one of its synonyms includes “Pecorino”, it’s important to clarify that Pecorello is a completely distinct grape variety from the better-known Pecorino grape grown in central Italy. Despite the similarity in names, these grapes are genetically unrelated, and each carries unique characteristics that reflect their regional origins.

The Pecorello grape is characterized by white berries of medium to small size and a spheroid shape. Its skin is thick and substantial, with a medium waxy bloom and a distinctive amber hue. The grape bunch is typically medium in size, cylindrical or conical in form, moderately compact to loose, and is paired with medium-large leaves that are orbicular and either entire or three-lobed.

In terms of viticultural performance, Pecorello displays medium to high vigor and tends to ripen from mid to late season. It is known for its average but reliable production levels, making it a manageable and sustainable choice for growers who seek quality over volume.

When vinified, Pecorello yields a pale yellow wine with an intense aromatic profile. Although it is rarely bottled as a single varietal, it plays an important role in blends, contributing to both white and rosé wines, and occasionally even to lighter red wines. In these blends, Pecorello imparts a distinct elegance and aromatic finesse, enhancing complexity and balance.

Despite its relative obscurity, Pecorello is gaining recognition among wine enthusiasts and producers alike who are drawn to indigenous Italian grape varieties with unique terroir expression. As interest in local and sustainable viticulture grows, the Pecorello grape stands out as a prime example of Calabria’s rich winemaking heritage and biodiversity.