The classification of ham can be confusing for those who are not familiar with the process and production standards. However, knowing the labels of ham is essential to understand its quality and origin. These labels inform us about the type of ham we are buying and provide details about its production process, the pig’s diet, and the region of origin. In Jamón Experience, we will break down the main labels you can find on hams, helping you make more informed decisions and enjoy this delicacy with greater knowledge. In any case, there is nothing better than a tasting of Iberian ham to see firsthand the differences between them.
The Ibérico Standard
The Ibérico Standard is a Spanish legislation that regulates the production and marketing of Ibérico products. This standard establishes several categories of ham based on the breed of the pig and its diet. The labels of Ibérico hams are color-coded for easy identification.
Black Label: 100% Acorn-Fed Ibérico Ham
The black label is reserved for the most prestigious and highest quality hams. A ham with this label comes from 100% Ibérico pigs that have been fed exclusively on acorns during the montanera, the period when pigs graze freely in the dehesas. These hams are considered the purest and most exquisite, with an unrivaled flavor and texture. The black label guarantees that the ham has undergone a rigorous quality control process and meets the highest standards of the Ibérico Standard.
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Red Label: Acorn-Fed Ibérico Ham
The red label indicates that the ham comes from pigs that are at least 50% Ibérico and have also been fed on acorns during the montanera. Although not as pure as black label hams, these hams are still of excellent quality. The red label ensures that the product has a high acorn content in its diet, which significantly contributes to its flavor and texture.
Green Label: Field-Fattened Ibérico Ham
Hams with a green label come from pigs that can be either purebred Ibérico or crossbred with a minimum of 50% Ibérico blood. These pigs are raised in the field and their diet consists of a mix of feed and natural resources from the environment, but not exclusively acorns. The green label indicates a good quality ham, although it does not reach the exclusivity level of acorn-fed hams.
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White Label: Grain-Fed Ibérico Ham
The white label is used for hams that come from Ibérico pigs fed on grain in farms. These pigs can be either purebred Ibérico or crossbred with at least 50% Ibérico blood. Although the quality of these hams is lower compared to acorn-fed hams, they are still high-quality products with a characteristic flavor and pleasant texture.
Denominations of Origin
In addition to the labels based on the Ibérico Standard, many hams carry denomination of origin labels. These labels guarantee that the ham has been produced in a specific region of Spain, following traditional methods and strict quality controls.
Jamón de Huelva (Jabugo)
The denomination of origin Jamón de Huelva, also known as Jabugo, is one of the most prestigious. Hams from this denomination of origin come from Ibérico pigs raised in the Sierra de Huelva and fed on acorns during the montanera. Jabugo hams are famous for their intense flavor and smooth, juicy texture.
Jamón de Guijuelo
The denomination of origin Guijuelo is located in the province of Salamanca. Hams from this denomination of origin are characterized by their delicate flavor and fine texture. Guijuelo Ibérico pigs are fed on a mixed diet of feed and natural resources, including acorns. The region’s climate favors the optimal drying and curing of the hams, resulting in a high-quality product.
Jamón de Dehesa de Extremadura
The denomination of origin Dehesa de Extremadura covers a wide area in the autonomous community of Extremadura. Hams from this denomination of origin come from Ibérico pigs raised in dehesas, fed on acorns and other natural resources. Dehesa de Extremadura hams are known for their balanced flavor and excellent quality.
Understanding the labels of ham is crucial to fully appreciate this exquisite product. From the black label of 100% acorn-fed Ibérico hams to the different denominations of origin, each label tells a story about the origin, diet, and production process of the ham. The next time you find yourself facing a selection of hams, take a moment to read the labels and choose the product that best suits your preferences and expectations. This way, you can fully enjoy the complete experience that this gem of Spanish gastronomy offers.
