Ep 4. Pecorino - Tuscany, Italy

Cheese Slices season 1 episode 4, titled "Pecorino - Tuscany, Italy," takes viewers on a journey to explore the ancient art of cheese-making in the Tuscan region of Italy. Host Will Studd, a renowned cheese expert, travels to various regions in Tuscany, where he meets passionate artisanal cheese-makers to learn about the history and traditional methods of making Pecorino, Italy's famous sheep's milk cheese.

The episode starts with a visit to one of the oldest cheesemakers in Tuscany, where Will meets an experienced artisan who has been making Pecorino for over 60 years. He takes Will on a tour of his production facility, where he explains the meticulous process of making Pecorino. From the quality of the sheep's milk to the time and temperature of each step, the artisan explains how the cheese's taste, texture, and aroma is influenced by every detail of the process.

Next, Will visits a family-owned farm in a small village in Tuscany, where they have been making Pecorino for generations. Here, he learns about the unique qualities of the milk produced by the sheep in this particular region, which gives their cheese a distinct flavor. Will also gets to help with the cheese-making process, trying his hand at shaping the cheese rounds into their distinct cylindrical shape.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to beautiful shots of the Tuscan countryside, the sheep grazing on verdant pastures, and the historic town centers of the many villages scattered throughout the region. Will also meets with chefs and locals who share their experiences and creative uses for Pecorino, highlighting the cheese's versatility in Italian cuisine.

In the second half of the episode, Will visits a cheesemaker who has been experimenting with aging Pecorino in different ways, from burying them in soil to hanging them in caves. He explains the science behind the aging process and how it can dramatically alter the flavor and texture of the cheese.

As the episode comes to a close, Will visits a modern production facility that uses cutting-edge technology to make Pecorino on a large scale. Here, he talks to experts in food science and engineering who explain how they are innovating the cheese-making process while still keeping the traditional methods intact.

Overall, "Pecorino - Tuscany, Italy" is a fascinating episode that explores the rich history and culture of cheese-making in one of Italy's most famous regions. It showcases the passion and dedication of the artisans who have been making Pecorino for generations, highlighting the unique qualities of each type of cheese and how they are integral to Italian cuisine. The episode is a must-watch for cheese lovers and anyone interested in learning more about the traditions and techniques used in artisanal cheese-making.