What are the flavors of Manciano Pecorino fresh versus aged?

Fresh, the pecorino from Manciano is rather mild, milky and delicate, with a slight tangy note; its paste remains supple and tender. Aged, it gains in intensity: the taste becomes saltier and more lingering, with notes of dried fruit, sometimes a spicy touch depending on the length of aging. The paste firms up and can become crumbly. In short, the fresh one is rounder and easier to eat as is; the aged one has more character.

In Manciano, you will find in particular Pecorino Toscano DOP produced in fresh and aged versions: for this designation, the fresh version matures for at least 20 days, while the stagionata version matures for at least 4 months. The exact durations and aromas then vary depending on the wheel and the producer, so "aged" does not always mean the same taste. For a cheese board, take both and taste them side by side; the fresh one goes well with bread or fava beans, the aged one with honey or jam. If you prefer discreet flavors, choose the fresh one; if you like drier, more pronounced cheese, ask for a longer aging.