Pecorello Bianco is a native Calabrian grape variety with a long-standing tradition, associated primarily with the central-northern part of the region. Its historical presence has been documented since at least the 19th century, whilst its official registration dates back to 1971. It is most widely grown in the hills of the Cosenza area, the Savuto Valley and the foothills of the Sila, with some also found in the Catanzaro area and other wine-growing regions of Calabria.
From an ampelographic point of view, it produces a medium-sized bunch, generally conical or cylindrical in shape, often winged and fairly compact. The berries are small to medium in size, spherical, with a firm, thick and pruinose skin, greenish-yellow in colour, tending towards golden as they ripen. The leaf is medium to large, orbicular, entire or three-lobed, with a slightly blistered surface and wavy margins.
Wine made from Pecorello Bianco has a bright straw-yellow colour, sometimes enhanced by greenish or golden hues. On the nose, it offers aromas of white flowers, citrus, apple, pear, yellow-fleshed fruit and fresh almond, with possible mineral and herbaceous nuances. On the palate, it is fresh, balanced, savoury and well-structured, with a lingering finish. The finest versions can age well in the bottle, developing greater complexity. Traditionally blended with Greco Bianco and Montonico, it is now increasingly produced as a single-varietal wine, both in stainless steel tanks and through more complex ageing processes.
