Made by Sergio, the famed producer of Sottocenere, Barricato al Pepe is a pasteurized cow's milk cheese coated in black pepper. After an initial 90 days of aging, he buries the wheels in black pepper and places them in wine barrels to finish maturing for another six months. The black peppercorns add a lively kick without overwhelming the buttery paste. Wine residue from the barrels contributes a hint of fruit, giving the cheese a full, round flavor.