In the world of Spanish gastronomy, one of the greatest treasures is, without a doubt, the leg of ham. Whether it is Serrano or Iberian. The variety and certifications can be overwhelming for those who wish to enjoy this delicacy. To help you distinguish, at a glance, which type of ham you are buying and why it is worth buying, we have prepared this definitive guide to the Protected Designations of Origin (PDO), Protected Geographical Indications (PGI) and the famous flanges that differentiate Iberian hams.
Why do PDOs and PGIs exist?
PDOs and PGIs (DOP and IGP in Spanish) are differentiated quality seals recognised at European level with the aim of protecting and enhancing the value of products linked to a specific territory. They guarantee aspects such as authenticity, quality, tradition and origin. This means that, when we see one of these figures on the label, we can trust that the ham has passed rigorous controls:
PDO (Protected Designation of Origin): This requires that the entire process, from the rearing of the pig to the subsequent process of making the hams, takes place in a specific region, meeting the requirements imposed by the regulatory body of the corresponding PDO, which are always of very high quality.
PGI (Protected Geographical Indication): At least part of the process - production, processing or preparation - takes place in the geographical area that grants protection. In this case the pigs may have been reared and slaughtered in other areas of the peninsula.
There are five protected Denominations of Origin for Spanish hams . Four for Iberian ham and one for Serrano ham.
PDO ham in Spain
1. DOP Guijuelo Ham (Salamanca)
This denomination covers the Iberian hams and shoulders produced in the area of Guijuelo, known for its cold and dry climate, ideal for curing. Its flavour is usually mild and slightly sweet, and it produces both Cebo de Campo and Bellota hams.
2. DOP Dehesa de Extremadura Ham
It includes hams produced in Extremadura with a great tradition in the breeding of the Iberian pig. Both the acorn-fed ham with an intense and persistent aroma and the Iberian Cebo de Campo ham are produced under the PDO.
3. DOP Jabugo Ham
Formerly known as DOP Jamón de Huelva, today it is called DOP Jabugo. It is produced in the Sierra de Aracena y Picos de Aroche National Park (Biosphere Reserve), specifically in a unique microclimate where the altitude and humidity provide a very characteristic flavour and bouquet. Only 100% Iberian acorn-fed hams and shoulder hams are produced under this label.
4. DOP Los Pedroches Ham (Cordoba)
Renowned for its extensive pastures, this designation covers Los Pedroches shoulders and ham from 100% Iberian pigs, known as ‘Jamón Pata Negra’. They are pieces with a notable fat infiltration and a balanced flavour, the result of the combination of acorns and dry climate.
5. DOP Teruel Cured Ham
It is produced exclusively in the province of Teruel (Aragon), and is also the first white ham (non-Iberian) in Spain to obtain a Protected Designation of Origin. Its production obeys very precise rules on the breeding of the pigs (generally crosses with breeds such as Landrace and Large White). The result is a cured ham with a mild and balanced flavour, with an appropriate salt content and a minimum curing period that gives it a characteristic aroma.
The PGI Trevélez Ham: The Best Serrano Ham
For those who prefer Serrano hams, but with a guarantee of quality, the Trevélez PGI is a great reference. Located in the Alpujarra of Granada, in the heart of the Sierra Nevada Natural Park, it benefits from the altitude and climatic conditions of the area for a completely natural curing process. This results in a mild, low-salt ham, highly appreciated for its tender texture and delicate flavour.
The Trevélez Protected Geographical Indication requires the ham to be produced in municipalities above 1,200 metres above sea level, which has a positive influence on the drying and maturing of the meat. They are 100% natural hams, with no preservatives or additives; just the ham and sea salt.
Other seals: ETG (Traditional Speciality Guaranteed TSG)
Although not as famous at a popular level as the PDO or PGI, the TSG (Traditional Speciality Guaranteed) is another interesting figure that ensures that the product is made with a traditional recipe or method, maintaining the characteristics that have made it famous throughout history. For example, the ETG Serrano ham follows specific salting and drying processes that give it its unmistakable flavour.
In fact, a ham can only be called ‘Jamón Serrano’ if it carries the E.T.G. label, although all ham that is not Iberian is popularly known as Serrano ham.
The Bridle System in Iberian Hams
Hams with coloured flanges belong to the Iberian breed of pigs. This system is not exactly a European quality seal, but it is the official way of distinguishing, in Spain, the level of racial purity of the pig and the feed it has received:
- Brida Negra: For hams and shoulders from 100% Iberian pigs fed on acorns in an extensive regime. Popularly known as ‘pata negra hams’.
- Brida Roja: For hams and shoulders from 50% or 75% Iberian breed pigs, also fattened on acorns.
- Green Bridle: Corresponds to hams and shoulders from free-range fattening, where the animal is reared in the wild, but fed on pasture and feed.
- White Bridle: Assigns the ham and shoulder of fattening, from pigs raised on farms, where they are fed on feed and do not go out to the field.
For more information, read this article.
How to Choose the Best Spanish Ham Leg
When buying a ham, whether it is Serrano or Iberian, look out for:
- Label and seals: Make sure it has the PDO, PGI, if that is what you are looking for, or in the case of Iberian pork, the flange with the colour corresponding to the quality you are looking for.
- Company or producer: Check the reputation of the manufacturer or shop. Reading reviews and opinions from other customers can be very useful.
- Price accordingly: Ham with quality seals involves more demanding production processes, so the cost is usually higher.
Dare to Try Different Varieties
Although pata negra ham (Acorn-fed 100% iberian Ham) is the jewel in the crown, there is a wide variety of hams that deserve to be discovered. Each geographical area, type of feed and curing process brings a unique touch to the final product. From a Serrano ham from Trevélez to an Iberian ham from Los Pedroches, the experience of tasting different options will help you better appreciate the differences in flavour, aroma and texture.
Your Next Step: Enjoying the Best Spanish Ham
Now that you know the main labels and quality seals, you have the tools you need to identify the perfect ham for you. Whether you are looking for maximum excellence with a black bridle, or you prefer a Serrano ham, remember that, behind each piece, there is a centuries-old tradition and a dedication to offer the best of our gastronomy.
Ready to take the leap and take home an authentic ham with care and tradition? Visit the Jamón Pasión shop to discover its carefully selected selection of Iberian and Serrano hams. There you will find pieces endorsed by the most demanding quality seals, as well as a team of professionals ready to advise you at every step of the buying process. Dare to taste the difference and enjoy a unique delicacy!