Monte Nevado Unveils Limited Edition 2020 Vintage of 100% Iberian Bellota Ham

Monte Nevado, the most awarded ham producer at the Spanish Food Awards, has announced the release of the Limited Edition 2020 vintage of its prized 100% Iberian Bellota Ham. Gourmet connoisseurs and the most discerning palates find this offering a treasure each year. With its heritage deeply rooted in tradition, Monte Nevado continues to set the standard for premium ham production.

The Exceptional 2020 Vintage

As with every year, Monte Nevado meticulously hand-selected the finest pieces of 100% Iberian Bellota Ham from the 2019-2020 montanera season. This vintage has been deemed extraordinary due to the exceptional quality and abundance of acorns and grass during the season, particularly at its end. The late November and December rains contributed significantly by reducing fat oxidation during the aging process in the cellar. These favorable natural conditions, combined with Monte Nevado’s expertise, have resulted in a special edition with an unmatched aromatic and taste profile.

Tasting Notes of the 2020 Vintage

Monte Nevado’s 2020 vintage of 100% Iberian Bellota Ham showcases an array of sensory characteristics that elevate it to the pinnacle of gourmet excellence:

Aspect: This vintage is distinguished by its stylized appearance and lean meat ranging from pink to deep red. These shades are attributed to the use of pigs that begin their acorn-rich diet at an older age (16 months). The physical activity in seeking water, grass, and acorns also contributes to the meat’s greater maturity. Prolonged curing further enhances the muscle fibers’ pink hues, emphasizing the purity of the Iberian breed.

Scent: The 2020 vintage offers an intense and persistent fragrant profile. Dominant notes of acorn and fresh grass are complemented by subtle hints of undergrowth, aromatic herbs, and fruity nuances such as peach and toasted nuts. This complex aroma lingers, making it a standout sensory experience.

Texture: The fat in this vintage is remarkably smooth and soluble, akin to the texture of fine olive oil. Its oleic fatty acid content reduces viscosity upon contact with the mouth, lending a silky, fluid sensation.

Flavor: A defining feature of this vintage is its enduring flavor. The acorns’ quality imparts sweet starch notes reminiscent of nuts, balanced by a pronounced umami presence. This umami depth is further enriched by kokumi compounds, creating a velvety, full-bodied taste that lingers delightfully in the mouth. The low salt content enhances these natural flavors, offering an intricate balance of sweetness and savoriness.

The Heritage of Pata Negra Ham

Monte Nevado’s 100% Iberian Bellota Ham embodies the pinnacle of Pata Negra Ham, a product celebrated for its exceptional quality and artisanal production. This Limited Edition exemplifies the centuries-old tradition of Iberian ham-making, blending the expertise of generations with the unique characteristics of the montanera season.

A Special Accompaniment: Tempore Glandis

The 2020 Limited Edition release includes a remarkable addition: Tempore Glandis, a scholarly work authored by the 4th and 5th generations of the Olmos family. This book explores the history and culture of acorn-fed Iberian ham, taking readers through the montanera, an ancient practice of fattening pigs. Featuring historical illustrations, the book spans from the last ice age to modern times, offering an in-depth exploration of Iberian ham’s evolution across European geography.

A Gourmet Treasure

Monte Nevado’s Limited Edition 2020 vintage of 100% Iberian Bellota Ham is a testament to the producer’s commitment to excellence and innovation. With its exceptional sensory qualities, it is not merely a product but an experience—a celebration of tradition, craftsmanship, and nature’s bounty. For those fortunate enough to savor it, this vintage represents the finest expression of Iberian ham, a true treasure for the most demanding palates.

Whether enjoyed as part of an elaborate culinary creation or savored on its own, this 2020 vintage reinforces Monte Nevado’s position as a leader in premium ham production, ensuring that Pata Negra Ham's legacy continues to enchant the world...LEARN MORE

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