How to Recognize a Good Iberian Ham

A good Iberian ham is much more than food—it’s culture, tradition, and flavor. At Museo del Jamón, we’ve spent over 45 years sharing this passion. If you’ve ever wondered how to identify a quality ham, this guide will help you understand what to look for: labeling, breed, diet, curing process, and both external and internal appearance. We’ll also explain how to choose the perfect one from our online store.

What Do the Iberian Ham Labels Mean?

In Spain, Iberian hams are classified using a color-coded label system that indicates the breed purity and type of feeding. It’s one of the most reliable ways to guarantee quality.

Black Label

Indicates a 100% Iberian acorn-fed ham. This is the most prestigious product, coming from purebred pigs raised free-range and fed exclusively on acorns during the “montanera” season. You’ll find this gastronomic gem in our store, ideal for the most demanding palates.

Red Label

These hams also come from acorn-fed pigs, but of mixed breed (75% or 50% Iberian). They offer deep flavor and great value for money. Available in our section for acorn-fed hams with various breed percentages.

Green Label

Refers to field-fed Iberian hams. These pigs are raised outdoors but eat a mix of grass and feed. We offer this category in our store—perfect for those looking for quality at a more accessible price.

White Label

This is for grain-fed Iberian hams. The pigs are raised on farms and fed with cereals. A flavorful and affordable option, ideal for frequent consumption, and also available in our online shop.

The Pig’s Breed: A Key to Flavor

Ham quality is directly tied to the pig’s breed. The higher the Iberian blood percentage, the more marbled the meat will be, offering a juicier texture and a distinctive flavor.

• 100% Iberian ham: From purebred pigs, featuring fine marbling, intense aroma, and persistent flavor—like our 100% Ibérico Acorn-Fed Jamón (Guijuelo)
• 50% or 75% Iberian ham: From crossbred pigs, still of excellent quality and ideal for those looking for a balance between flavor and price. A great example is our 75% Ibérico Acorn-Fed Jamón (Guijuelo)

In our store, you can select hams by breed percentage and choose the one that best suits your preferences.

The Pig’s Diet

The pig’s diet has a significant impact on the flavor and texture of the ham. A pig fed on acorns in the wild produces a very different product from one raised on feed.

• Acorn-fed ham: Deep flavor, buttery texture, rich aroma. A must-have for special occasions or as a luxury gift. Try our 50% Ibérico Acorn-Fed Jamón (Guijuelo)
• Field-fed ham (cebo de campo): Great value with a milder flavor. Our 50% Ibérico Grain and Grass-Fed Jamón is the perfect example.
• Grain-fed ham (cebo): Balanced flavor, ideal for daily use, sandwiches, or tapas. At Museo del Jamón, we offer both whole pieces and pre-sliced packages to suit your needs.

Curing Time and Conditions

Iberian ham requires time and care. The longer the curing period, the more complex the ham’s flavor profile becomes.

• 100% Iberian acorn-fed hams: Typically cured for more than 36 months.
• Field-fed hams: Cured between 24 and 36 months.
• Grain-fed hams: Start at around 18 months.

At Museo del Jamón, we work with producers who respect these natural curing times. You’ll find hams with different maturations so you can choose based on your preferences.

How to Identify It by External Appearance

A quick look at the exterior of the ham can reveal much about its quality:

• Stylized, elongated shape: Indicates the pig was active and raised free-range.
• Black hoof: A common feature of Iberian pigs (but not exclusive).
• Yellowish, soft fat: A sign of long, natural curing.

Every piece offered in our store has been carefully selected and meets these quality standards.

What the Cut Reveals: Color, Aroma, and Flavor

When you cut into a good Iberian ham, the first thing that stands out is the deep red color and fine streaks of fat that melt at room temperature.

• Bright red color: Sign of proper curing.
• Fat marbling: Adds succulence and flavor.
• Complex aroma: Hints of nuts, aged meat, and wild herbs.
• Persistent flavor: Sweet at first, slightly salty, and ending with a satisfying umami finish.

At Museo del Jamón, you can sample before you buy—or trust our detailed online descriptions to receive a product that exceeds expectations.

Where to Buy a High-Quality Iberian Ham?

Buying a good Iberian ham shouldn’t be a gamble. At Museo del Jamón, we have decades of experience offering trusted quality and expert advice.

In our online store, you’ll find:

• 100% Iberian Acorn-Fed Ham
• 50% or 75% Iberian Field-Fed Ham
• 50% Iberian Grain-Fed Ham

All available with home delivery, detailed product information, and the reliability of a well-known brand.

You can also visit us at our physical stores in Madrid and get personalized recommendations from our team. Discover our full gastronomic offer in the heart of the city.