Aphrodite’s Cacio di Wins Great Taste Award Three-Star Recognition

Fiorini Pecorino Achieves Prestigious Three-Star Recognition at Great Taste Awards

Fiorini,a renowned Italian cheese producer,has earned a coveted three-star rating at the Great Taste Awards,a significant achievement that places it among the top 2% of over 14,000 participating products. This marks a remarkable milestone as the only Italian pecorino to reach this esteemed level. The company’s success extends beyond this singular recognition, with additional stars awarded to Fiorini Grotto, Il Cacio di Caterina, and the Cacio di Giove.

Cacio di Afrodite: A Rising Star Celebrated for Its Unique Qualities

The newly launched Cacio di Afrodite,introduced in 2021,has rapidly garnered international acclaim. Its remarkable list of accolades includes a gold medal at the World Cheese Awards in Oviedo and the title of “best mountain cheese in the world” at the International Cheese Awards 2025. furthermore, it received a Golden Fork in 2023 for best Italian product, among numerous other awards totaling 10 in just five years.

More than just a cheese, the Cacio di Afrodite is described as an experience, its name inspired by the goddess of love.its aroma evokes summer hay and dried fruit, with an underlying earthy note. The taste is a revelation, unfolding with a profound depth that evolves with each bite. It is savory without being overwhelming, intense yet elegant. the cheese boasts a compact yet velvety texture, melting on the palate with a lingering, enveloping finish, a testament to months of meticulous care, respect for the milk, and adherence to traditional production timelines.

International judges lauded the Cacio di afrodite, describing it as “a delicious cheese, which combines animal notes and refinement in a surprising balance. A pecorino with unique characteristics, worthy of the maximum score.” Other Fiorini creations also received high praise. The Fiorini Grotto was commended for being “harmonious and balanced, the result of careful and loving processing,” while Caterina and Giove were recognized for their remarkable craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Angela Fiorini, who co-manages the company with her husband Simone Sargentoni, expressed immense pride in these awards. “there are awards,” she stated,”that do not reward only a product,but all that lies behind it: daily dedication,love for the territory,respect for tradition,and the courage to innovate.” She highlighted the Cacio di Afrodite’s ability to connect with judges on an emotional and sensory level, attributing its success to its “unique elegance.” this series of accolades serves as a vital confirmation of their production philosophy centered on excellence, passion, and craftsmanship.

Simone Sargentoni further elaborated on the company’s commitment. “From the Maremma to the world,” he said,”we carry forward with consistency a family tradition that enhances the most authentic offerings of our land. Each wheel tells a piece of our story. Aphrodite’s cheese is much more than a rewarded cheese: it is the result of the perfect union between the territory, craftsmanship, and excellent raw materials.”

What makes Aphrodite’s Cacio di stand out from other Pecorino Romano cheeses?

The Pinnacle of Pecorino: A Three-Star Triumph

Aphrodite’s Cacio di,a small-batch Pecorino Romano cheese producer,has been awarded the coveted three-star recognition at the Great Taste Awards 2025. This prestigious award places Aphrodite’s Cacio di amongst the top 0.7% of over 14,800 products assessed, solidifying its position as a leading artisan cheese in the UK and beyond. The win highlights the dedication to traditional cheesemaking techniques and the exceptional quality of the sheep’s milk used.

Understanding the Great Taste Awards

The Great Taste Awards, organized by the Guild of Fine Food, are widely recognized as the most rigorous and independent accreditation scheme for fine food and drink. Judging is conducted by over 500 experts, including chefs, food critics, and producers. Products are evaluated on taste, texture, appearance, and aroma.

One star: Simply tasty

Two Stars: Above and beyond delicious

Three Stars: World-class

Achieving three stars signifies a product is truly outstanding and demonstrates exceptional craftsmanship. This is a important achievement for any food producer, especially smaller, artisan businesses like Aphrodite’s Cacio di.

What Makes aphrodite’s cacio di exceptional?

Aphrodite’s Cacio di distinguishes itself through a commitment to several key factors:

Sourcing: the cheese is crafted exclusively from the milk of locally sourced,pasture-fed sheep. This ensures a rich, complex flavor profile reflecting the terroir.

Traditional Techniques: The cheesemaking process adheres to centuries-old Italian traditions, avoiding shortcuts and prioritizing natural maturation.

Handcrafted Quality: Each wheel of Cacio di is carefully handcrafted by skilled cheesemakers, ensuring consistent quality and attention to detail.

Maturation Process: A lengthy maturation period, typically exceeding eight months, allows the flavors to fully develop, resulting in a sharp, salty, and umami-rich cheese.

The Flavor Profile: A Deep Dive

Judges at the Great Taste Awards praised Aphrodite’s Cacio di for its:

Intense Salinity: A characteristic of high-quality Pecorino Romano,providing a satisfyingly sharp bite.

Nutty Undertones: Developed during the extended maturation process, adding depth and complexity.

Lingering Finish: A long,satisfying aftertaste that leaves a lasting impression.

Firm, Granular Texture: Ideal for grating over pasta or enjoying shaved with a drizzle of olive oil.

The cheese’s versatility is also a key strength, making it a popular choice for both culinary professionals and home cooks.

Pecorino Romano: A Brief History & Production

Pecorino Romano is a hard,salty Italian cheese made from 100% sheep’s milk. Its origins date back to ancient Rome, with evidence suggesting its production as early as 200 BC.

Here’s a speedy overview of the production process:

1. Milk Collection: Fresh sheep’s milk is collected from certified farms.
2. Coagulation: Rennet is added to the milk, causing it to coagulate.
3. Curd Cutting & Cooking: The curd is cut and cooked to remove excess moisture.
4. Molding & Salting: The curd is placed into molds and salted.
5. Maturation: The cheese is aged for a minimum of five months, with premium varieties aged for eight months or longer.

Serving Suggestions & Culinary Applications

Aphrodite’s Cacio di is incredibly versatile in the kitchen. Here are a few ideas:

cacio e Pepe: The classic Roman pasta dish, showcasing the cheese’s intense flavor.

Gratin: Perfect for creating a crispy, golden-brown topping on vegetables or pasta bakes.

**Shaved Salad