HAM EXPERIENCE BARCELONA
Explore the world of Iberian ham, a culinary gem from Spain. Immerse yourself in its history, learn about its artisanal process and discover how this exquisite product has become one of the most representative symbols of our gastronomy.
BARCELONA IBERIAN HAM TASTING AND TASTING
We will begin our experience with a welcome from our specialized guide who will introduce you to the world of Iberian ham.
Tasting and Sampling of Iberian Ham
In this tasting, you will be able to taste five types of Iberian ham, each with unique characteristics and different Denominations of Origin. You will learn to differentiate the categories of ham according to current regulations, which include 100% Iberian acorn-fed, Iberian acorn-fed, field-fed, and fattened, identified by colored ties according to the purity and diet of the pig. In a cozy and specialized environment, we will guide you through a theoretical introduction and a practical tasting, where each ham will be paired with a special drink to enhance its flavors. In addition, we will explore the Denominations of Origin such as Jabugo, Dehesa de Extremadura, Guijuelo, and Los Pedroches, highlighting the particularities of each region and its curing process.
The Art of Cutting Iberian Ham
We will not only discover the flavours and aromas of this product, but also the art of cutting. Throughout the tasting, we will observe how professional cutting is carried out, an essential technique to fully appreciate Iberian acorn-fed ham.
Cutting Iberian ham is an art in itself, and it begins with a brief presentation of the essential tools, especially the ham knife: a long, thin and flexible knife, designed to obtain thin slices that release all the richness of flavour and aroma. In addition, a pointed knife will be used to separate the bone from some parts and another with a wide blade to clean the piece.
What does an Iberian Ham experience include?
Guide specialized in Iberian ham.
Guide specialized in Iberian ham.
Guide specialized in Iberian ham.
Types of Ham that We Will Discover at Jamón Experience Ibérica
In our tasting experience, we will explore the variety of Iberian hams with their Denominations of Origin and quality categories. Each type represents the best of the tradition and flavor of Iberian ham in its different levels of purity, feeding, and curing processes, regulated under the quality regulations in force since 2015. Below, we explain each of the types that we will taste.
Jabugo Ham
Location: Huelva, Andalusia.
Characteristics: Famous for its intensity of flavour, Jabugo produces acorn-fed hams with an exceptional balance between texture and aroma, thanks to its long curing time and the natural feeding of acorns in the pasture.
Extremadura pastures
Location: Extremadura.
Characteristics: With a high concentration of healthy fatty acids, these hams have a smooth and elegant flavour. Extremadura is ideal for free range farming, thanks to its vast fields of holm oaks that offer a diet rich in acorns.
Guijuelo
Location: Salamanca, Castile and Leon.
Characteristics: The cold, dry climate of this region favours slow curing, which enhances the ham’s soft, delicate flavour. This is one of the most recognised hams on the market for its soft, persistent flavour.
The Pedroches
Location: Cordoba, Andalusia.
Characteristics: With a high proportion of infiltrated fat, the hams from this region have a rich and creamy flavour, with notes of nuts and a buttery texture. Los Pedroches is characterised by its livestock farming tradition and its extensive pastures.
Classification of Iberian Ham According to Quality
To understand the quality of each ham, we will look at the coloured ties that identify the pig’s racial purity and diet. These are the types we will explore:
100% Iberian acorn-fed
From 100% Iberian pigs fed exclusively on acorns in the pasture. This is the highest level of quality, represented by a black bridle, and stands out for its deep flavour, smoothness and persistent aroma.
Iberian acorn-fed (75% or 50%)
Coming from 75% or 50% Iberian pigs that are also raised free-range and fed on acorns. Represented by a red bridle, this ham is a delight for the palate, with intense flavours although less complex than 100% Iberian.
Iberian free range bait
These pigs are raised in semi-freedom, supplementing their diet with natural pastures and feed. With a green bridle, the field-fed ham is an excellent option for those looking for a quality ham with a smooth and balanced flavour.
Iberian bait
Coming from Iberian pigs fed exclusively with feed on farms. Identified with a white bridle, this type of ham is accessible and offers a milder flavour, ideal for getting started in the world of Iberian ham.
Our Jamón Experience Space: La Vinacoteca
The location where we host the Jamón Experience is a carefully selected wine bar, ideal for creating a complete experience around Iberian ham. This cozy and elegant environment is designed to highlight the nuances and flavors of each type of ham through pairings with exceptional wines.
At the winery, every detail is thought out to offer an enriched tasting: the setting is perfect for enjoying in peace, and the professional atmosphere allows you to appreciate both the ham and the wines with an authentic and specialized perspective. Here, you will learn to combine different types of Iberian ham with wines that enhance their characteristics, discovering how the flavors complement and elevate each other.
Plus, our expert guides will walk you through every step, sharing their knowledge of ham and wine, so that each tasting becomes a memorable moment celebrating the best of Spanish gastronomy.
HAM EXPERIENCE BARCELONA
VARIOUS TYPES OF TOURS WE OFFER
At Barcelona Lands we offer you various tours available to suit your needs and requirements, which are as follows: