Grappoli di uva passerina e vino pecorino

Pecorino vs Passerina Wine: Comparison of Two Abruzzo Whites

Introduction

Abruzzo, a land rich in winemaking traditions, is home to two white grape varieties of great interest: Pecorino and Passerina. In this article, we will compare these two jewels of Abruzzo winemaking, exploring their unique characteristics and the differences that distinguish them.

Origins and History

Pecorino wine

Pecorino, as we noted in our complete guide , owes its name to the pastoral tradition. Rediscovered in the 1980s, it has experienced a rapid rise in the Italian wine scene.

Passerina Wine

Passerina, also native to Abruzzo, has a less tormented history. Its name probably comes from the small size of its grapes, which resemble those of a sparrow.

Organoleptic Characteristics

Pecorino

  • Color : Straw yellow with greenish reflections
  • Aroma : Intense, with notes of white flowers, citrus fruits and aromatic herbs
  • Taste : Fresh, savoury, with good acidity and structure

Passerina

  • Color : Light straw yellow
  • Aroma : Delicate, with hints of white pulp fruit and wild flowers
  • Taste : Fresh, light, with a pleasant acidic note

Food Pairings

How to Pair Pecorino Wine

Pecorino, thanks to its structure and complexity, lends itself to numerous combinations:

  • Seafood and shellfish
  • Grilled fish
  • Medium-aged cheeses
  • White meat

Pairings for Passerina

The Passerina, with its lighter and more delicate profile, is ideal with:

  • Light appetizers
  • Fish in delicate preparations
  • Fresh cheeses
  • Vegetarian dishes

Pecorino and Passerina: two expressions of Abruzzo

Both of these wines represent the Abruzzo terroir excellently, but with different nuances:

  • Pecorino expresses complexity and structure, ideal for those looking for a white wine with character
  • Passerina offers freshness and delicacy, perfect for those who prefer lighter and more versatile wines

Pecorino from Cantina Margiotta

For those who want to discover the authentic expression of Pecorino Abruzzese, the Pecorino IGT Cretara 2023 by Cantina Margiotta is an excellent choice. This wine perfectly embodies the characteristics of the grape variety, offering a unique experience of the Abruzzo terroir. Discover more about our Pecorino .

Conclusion

Pecorino and Passerina, while sharing their Abruzzo origins, offer different and complementary tasting experiences. The choice between the two will depend on personal preferences and the tasting context. Why not try both and find out which one best suits your tastes?

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