Artusi Pecorino Terre di Chieti Review – The Perfect Barbecue White?

Sometimes Simplicity Wins

This weekend’s wine wasn’t anything particularly expensive or highly rated. It was simply a bottle of Artusi Pecorino from Terre di Chieti picked up to accompany a barbecue of garlic marinated chicken and pork ribeye chops.

As it turned out, it was exactly the right wine for the occasion.

Pecorino is still a grape that flies under the radar in the UK, which is a shame because it offers something a little different from the usual Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio that many people automatically reach for when the weather improves.

On The Nose

Straight away the wine was zippy and fresh. There was plenty of citrus character with lemon leading the way, supported by some stone fruit notes sitting just behind it.

It wasn’t explosive or hugely aromatic, but it was inviting. The sort of wine that makes you want to take a sip rather than spend five minutes analysing it.

In The Glass

Before food arrived, my first thought was that this sat somewhere in Sauvignon Blanc territory, but with slightly less intensity and energy.

The acidity was fresh and lively without becoming aggressive. Citrus flavours carried through onto the palate before giving way to a lovely fresh apricot finish that lingered surprisingly well.

It felt balanced, refreshing and incredibly easy to drink.

The Barbecue Pairing

The real test came when the food hit the table.

The chicken had been charred over charcoal before being finished gently in a covered pot on the barbecue, creating plenty of smoky flavour while keeping the meat juicy. Alongside it sat pork ribeye chops, salad and the usual barbecue accompaniments.

This is where the wine really came alive.

The acidity cut straight through the richness of the pork and crispy chicken skin, cleansing the palate between bites. At the same time, the fruit profile complemented the chicken beautifully, while the freshness worked effortlessly alongside the salad.

Nothing felt forced. The wine didn’t overpower the food and the food didn’t drown out the wine. They simply worked together.

Final Thoughts

This won’t be the most complex white wine you’ll drink this year and it isn’t trying to be. What it does offer is freshness, balance and versatility.

For a sunny afternoon barbecue, that’s exactly what I wanted.

Too often we think barbecue automatically means beer or a big red wine, but this bottle was a reminder that a crisp Italian white can sometimes be the better choice.

A thoroughly enjoyable wine that delivered exactly what the occasion required.