Pecorino

92 Points
Regan Drew
Vino Notebook

Fox Creek are based in McLaren Vale but head to the Hills for this still relatively unknown (in Australia) Italian variety. Pecorino also is an Italian Sheep cheese as it translates to “Little Sheep.” It’s had a bit of a tough history, thought to be extinct in the mid 20th century until brought back to life by a researcher investigating an old vineyard in the Marche area of Italy. This one was grown in the Amadio Vineyard in the Adelaide Hills though.

Pale lemon/straw colour. Soft aromas of yellow apples and light pear with barley water, kitchen herbs, hard cheese rind, beach sand, white peach tea and native blossom. Surprisingly weighty texture for such a delicate nose. Waxy apples and not-quite ripe white stone fruit all punctuated by a dry salinity and some seriously intense acidity. Unique.

90 Points
Ken Gargett
Wine Pilot

The rather rare Italian variety, Pecorino, may not be on the radar of many local winelovers yet, but the small number of examples we have seen all suggest that this is a grape worth keeping an eye on. It certainly seems to take well to local conditions, in this case the Adelaide Hills. For those not familiar, this is a fine introduction to the grape. Vinification here is done with the obvious intention of bringing the grape and its flavours to the fore, without any ‘enhancement’. Pure Pecorino, if you like. A yellow hue with flecks of green. We have a very pleasing array of aromas here, with citrus, notably grapefruit pith, spices, hints of stonefruit, all with a minerally support. This is an attractive, refreshing wine with bright acidity giving it a taut focus and driving the wine. Very good length with a crisp finish. Ideal for chilling and enjoying over simmer and no doubt it will age for several years but why? This is a wine for immediate gratification.