Passofino Pecorino Terre di Chieti IGP is a crisp, aromatic white wine from Abruzzo, crafted by Feudi Bizantini in historic Crecchio. Within the Passofino line, this wine focuses on bright fruit, vibrant freshness, and a pure style that perfectly complements coastal Italian cuisine. The combination of the Chieti hills, cooling influences from both sea and mountains, and modern cellar techniques gives this Pecorino its fresh, taut fruity character.
The origin lies in the province of Chieti, a key part of Abruzzo on the eastern side of Central Italy.
• Location / Origin: The vineyards are situated in the hills of the Chieti province, while the modern winery is located in Crecchio. This historic Byzantine village is dominated by a medieval castle and serves as the heart of Feudi Bizantini.
• Climate & Influences: The vineyards benefit from influences of both the sea and the mountains. The cool breeze provides ventilation in the vineyard and helps the grapes develop healthy, aromatic ripeness.
• Soil: The soils are thin and rich in limestone, with a light base of clay and sand. Limestone and good drainage help maintain freshness, tension, and aromatic precision in the grapes.
• Temperature fluctuations: The proximity of the Gran Sasso mountain range and the altitude of the vineyards ensure clear differences between day and night. This allows the grapes to ripen well while retaining fresh acidity.
Passofino Pecorino is made from 1 grape variety, which allows the character of this ancient white grape to come through clearly.
• Pecorino – Terre di Chieti IGP: What is Pecorino? Pecorino is a white grape variety of uncertain origin that has been grown for centuries in Central Italy, especially in Marche and Abruzzo, where it is known by various names. The variety was brought back from the brink of extinction and is now known for white wines with freshness, structure, and aromatic power.
The vinification is entirely focused on freshness, fruit purity, and protecting delicate aromas.
• Harvest & Selection: The whole grapes are first cooled in a special cooling tunnel, causing the temperature to drop immediately and allowing for a short cold soak. The grapes are then destemmed and gently pressed in a protected environment at 0.7 bar, limiting oxidation and preserving fresh aromas.
• Fermentation: After cold static clarification for 24 to 48 hours at 14 °C, the juice ferments in stainless steel tanks at 8–11 °C. This low temperature helps to preserve citrus, white fruit, and tropical nuances as purely as possible.
• Aging: The wine ages for 3 months in stainless steel. This keeps the style taut, fresh, and direct, without any influence of oak.
