The Little Wine Company Pecorino 2022

Not the most common variety but a most interesting one. This rare Italian variety got its name from sheep. Pecora apparently is Italian for sheep, hence why we have a similarly named cheese as it comes from sheep’s milk, which were brought up and down mountains, next to vineyards. Whatever its history, it is obviously thriving in the Hunter Valley and with early successes like this. Hopefully we will see it more widely planted here. The juice is removed from the skins as quickly as possible before inoculation with neutral yeasts before a cool – 14°C – fermentation in stainless steel. To rachet up the texture, the wine is left on its lees for a further ten weeks before bottling.

An appealing yellow in colour, there are hints of florals and almonds along with crisp pear notes plus citrus and garden herbs. The texture is indeed a highlight, seamless and seductive, with a line of fine acidity running the length. Nicely balanced, this is attractive now but will continue to drink well over the next couple of years. Definitely worth exploring.