Pecorino Toscano is a beloved cheese from Tuscany, made from 100% sheep’s milk. Renowned for its mild yet distinctive flavor, this PDO-protected cheese is a staple of Italian cuisine, celebrated for its versatility in cooking and as part of a classic cheese board. Whether fresh or aged, Pecorino Toscano offers a delicious taste of Tuscany’s rich dairy traditions.


What Is Pecorino Toscano?

Pecorino Toscano is a semi-soft to hard cheese depending on its aging process. It has a smooth rind and a creamy, pale interior that becomes firmer and more crumbly with time. The cheese boasts a buttery, slightly nutty flavor that sharpens and grows more robust as it matures.

Two main varieties exist:

Fresco (Fresh): Aged for about 20–30 days, with a soft texture and delicate, milky taste.

Stagionato (Aged): Aged for 4–12 months, offering a firmer texture and a more complex, savory flavor.


A Brief History

Pecorino Toscano dates back to Etruscan times, when sheep farming and cheesemaking flourished in Tuscany. Over the centuries, the cheese evolved into a regional specialty, gaining recognition for its exceptional quality and flavor.

In 1996, authorities granted this cheese PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) status, ensuring producers make it exclusively in Tuscany and parts of Umbria and Lazio using traditional methods.


How Pecorino Toscano Is Made

Age-old practices form the foundation of this cheese’s production:

Milk Preparation: Cheesemakers use fresh, raw, or pasteurized sheep’s milk, sourced from local herds grazing on Tuscany’s lush pastures.

Curdling: The milk is heated and curdled with natural rennet.

Molding and Salting: The curds are placed into molds, pressed, and salted to enhance flavor and preservation.

Aging: Fresco varieties are aged for a few weeks, while Stagionato varieties mature in temperature-controlled cellars for several months.


Culinary Uses

Pecorino Toscano’s versatility makes it a favorite in Italian kitchens. Here’s how to enjoy it:

Fresco (Fresh): Slice and serve with fresh fruit like pears or figs for a light antipasto.

Stagionato (Aged): Grate over pasta, risotto, or soups for a bold, savory kick.

Cheese Boards: Pair with honey, jams, or nuts to balance its salty richness.

Savory Dishes: Melt into sauces or use as a topping for vegetable dishes like eggplant parmigiana.


Pairing Pecorino Toscano

To elevate the experience, pair this cheese with complementary flavors:

Wine:

Fresco: Light whites like Vernaccia di San Gimignano.

Stagionato: Bold reds like Chianti or Brunello di Montalcino.

Bread: Serve with rustic Tuscan bread or crisp crostini.

Condiments: Accompany with truffle honey or a fig compote.


Where to Find This Cheese

Authentic Pecorino Toscano is available in Italian specialty stores or online. At Bottega Italiana, we offer PDO-certified Pecorino Toscano, sourced directly from Tuscany’s finest producers.


A Taste of Tuscany

Pecorino Toscano is more than just a cheese—it’s a symbol of Tuscany’s artisanal heritage and culinary passion. Whether enjoyed fresh or aged, this iconic cheese will transport you to the rolling hills of Tuscany with every bite.

What’s your favorite way to enjoy Pecorino Toscano? Share your tips and pairings in the comments below!

Photo by Bijltjespad, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons