Pecorino

Pecorino is a generic name for all Italian cheeses made with sheep's milk…its name derived from pecora, the Italian word for sheep. For most of Italy's history, some kind of pecorino has been its preeminent cheese. Sixteenth century records show that one pound of pecorino cost twice as much then as one pound of beef or of Parmesan. Even to this day, a choice pecorino is expensive and Italians with a fine appreciation of cheese are likely to prize it above other cheeses.