Pecorino & Pecorini

Pecorino & Pecorini: the taste of Farindola

Pecorino & Pecorini is the food and wine event that enlivens the historic center of Farindola every summer. This small village in the province of Pescara lies on the eastern slopes of the Gran Sasso massif, within the Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga National Park. The event, organized by the La Zanzara Cultural Association with the patronage of the Abruzzo Region, the Province of Pescara, and the Municipality of Farindola, celebrates the area's signature product: Pecorino di Farindola.

A cheese unique in the world

Pecorino di Farindola is a Slow Food Presidium and a unique gem in the Italian dairy landscape: it is the only pecorino produced using pig rennet instead of lamb or kid rennet. This ancient technique, with roots dating back to the Roman era and the legendary "caseus vestinus," has been passed down through generations by the local women. Its granular, straw-yellow, and slightly moist texture releases musky aromas and a perfect balance between spicy notes and the full flavor of sheep's milk.

Four squares, a tasting journey

The heart of the festival is a gourmet trail winding through four squares in the historic center. In each square, dairies from the Consortium for the Protection of Pecorino di Farindola offer their cheeses for tasting, while master sommeliers guide visitors through pairings with wines from over twenty Abruzzo wineries, particularly selections of Pecorino, the famous native grape variety. The cheese is accompanied by honey, extra virgin olive oil, homemade bread, craft beers, and chocolate.

Music, tradition, and community

Every evening, starting at 9:30 PM, the squares come alive with live musical performances, chosen for quality rather than volume to preserve the intimate atmosphere of the village. A highlight is the "Journey of the Cheese" procession, a folk re-enactment that traces the path of the pecorino from pasture to table. The event is also a moment of rebirth and revitalization for a community once struck by earthquakes and depopulation, which has rediscovered its identity and pride through its most precious cheese.

An authentic Abruzzo experience

Strolling through the alleys of Farindola during Pecorino & Pecorini means experiencing the truest side of Abruzzo: the mountain flavors, the hospitality of small villages, and the enduring peasant traditions. It is an event that combines high-quality gastronomy, popular culture, and the promotion of the Gran Sasso region.