Delving into the world of traditional Italian cheese often reveals unique techniques passed down through generations – methods that shape the final character of the cheese in remarkable ways. One such intriguing and flavour-enhancing method is encapsulated by the term "sottofieno".
"Sottofieno": More Than Just Storage
Literally translating from Italian as "under hay", this term describes a specific and fascinating aging process where cheese is matured completely surrounded by hay or straw. This natural wrapping isn't merely for storage; it plays a vital role in developing the cheese's distinctive profile, acting as a natural incubator of flavour and aroma.
Our Award-Winning Pecorino Sottofieno: A Masterpiece of Tradition
Our Pecorino Sottofieno, a proud part of our esteemed Collezione line, is a perfect illustration of this time-honored technique. This classic Tuscan cheese, a delightful, crumbly Pecorino, undergoes several months of careful aging. Crucially, during this maturation period, each wheel is lovingly wrapped in fragrant spring mountain pasture hay and straw.
This "sottofieno" process is key to imparting the typical aromas and authentic flavors of nature directly into the cheese. The hay's unique micro-environment also contributes to regulating humidity, while the straw subtly helps to accelerate and refine the maturation process.
The Sensory Experience of Pecorino Sottofieno Collezione
When you experience the Pecorino Sottofieno Collezione, prepare for a true sensory delight:
- Color: You'll immediately notice its inviting straw-yellow color, a visual hint of its hay-aged origins.
- Aroma: It boasts an intense and complex aroma, deeply reminiscent of the typical fresh scent of hay cut in June.
- Flavor: Expect a rich and nuanced flavor profile, with a specific, delicate hint of straw evident in the parts closest to the rind.
This exquisite Pecorino is produced in the heart of Tuscany, using only the finest sheep's milk, and typically matures for a minimum of 2 months to achieve its optimal character.
Gourm.it and Collezione: A Seal of Quality
The Pecorino Sottofieno Collezione is a flagship product under our Collezione.it brand. This brand is our guarantee that every food specialty we offer comes from the very best associated food companies located in every region of Italy. The Collezione.it brand acts as our unwavering seal of quality and unparalleled taste for a comprehensive range of premium Italian products.
The exceptional quality of this cheese, proudly distributed by Gourm.it, was recently recognized on the global stage. It was honored with a prestigious Silver Medal at the World Cheese Awards 2024 in Viseu, Portugal. This coveted award stands as a powerful tribute to the artisanal work and the exceptional quality of the producers Gourm.it proudly represents.
Understanding terms like "sottofieno" offers a deeper insight into the traditional artistry, regional heritage, and natural influences that contribute to the complexity and unique character of authentic Italian cheeses. At Gourm.it, we are incredibly proud to connect discerning consumers like you with such high-quality, truly artisanal products.
For more information about our award-winning cheeses and our extensive range of exquisite Italian food products, we invite you to explore our website or contact us directly. Experience the true taste of Italy with Gourm.it!
