Pecorino Collecivetta 2022 – Pasetti Vini

Pasetti’s history has its roots in the “Bourbons” era when Silvestro Pasetti purchased several parcels of land and began planting vineyards. Silvestro’s dream was carried on by his son Rocco, who never gave up, especially when faced with and defeated the phylloxera plague.
Currently, Mimmo runs the winery, torn between the desire to thoroughly preserve the heritage of beloved Abruzzo and his natural inclination for innovation.
Francesca, Mimmo’s eldest daughter, had red hair, just like the beautiful Madame Rachele, Franco’s mother. Franco bottled the “Testarossa” Montepulciano and Trebbiano wines as a tribute to these two charming women who represent the symbol of the family’s past and future. Today, Testarossa is the most representative brand of the Pasetti winery.
All of Pasetti’s wines are produced in the Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga National Park. These wines reflect a commitment to staying connected to local places and native grape varieties. The red Testarossa is made with Montepulciano d’Abruzzo grapes, while other wines are produced from Trebbiano d’Abruzzo, Pecorino, and Passerina white grape varieties. Pasetti also produces a wonderful sweet white wine made from Moscatello di Castiglione grapes, an ancient variety that has nearly disappeared.
At a time when many viticulturists were planting international grape varieties like Cabernet, Merlot, and Chardonnay, Mimmo decided to focus on native grapes. He was confident that these grapes would yield excellent results when grown in suitable soils. With this certainty, Mimmo revived an ancient vine variety: Pecorino. The gamble paid off, and today Pecorino wine presents great opportunities for the entire Abruzzo winemaking community.

Pecorino

The Pecorino grape, despite its coincidental association with the famous cheese, actually derives its name from the sheepherders who would consume the grapes while tending to their flocks in the valleys. In the mid-20th century, Pecorino was believed to be extinct until the early 1980s when a local producer discovered an old vineyard with these vines and took cuttings for propagation.
The grapes have exceptionally high sugar content and possess a unique ability to reflect the terroir with unabashed authenticity. This grape is both delicate and expressive, requiring a patient and dedicated winemaker. It can be enjoyed while young with approachable freshness or aged to develop complexity over time.
The finest examples of Pecorino wines originate from the Abruzzo and Marche regions in central Italy, particularly those from the DOCG Offida designation. Pecorino thrives in fertile soils with ample water availability. The resulting wine showcases pronounced citrus notes, refreshing acidity, a well-balanced body, and a lingering finish.
Overall, Pecorino is an indigenous Abruzzese grape that has been rediscovered in recent years thanks to the efforts of a few audacious viticulturists. Its wines offer a delightful combination of zesty aromas, vibrant freshness, and satisfying persistence on the palate.