Spain is renowned for its passion for good food, and when it comes to ham, it doesn't get more special than jamón ibérico. But out of all the producers in the country, one name keeps popping up for all the right reasons—Jamones Blázquez. With deep roots, a family legacy, and a passion for quality, Blázquez has made its way to the top, earning the title of world's best ham in the eyes of many chefs and food lovers around the globe.
A Family Story That Started in 1932
The story of Blázquez started almost a hundred years ago, back in 1932. A couple named Isidoro Blázquez and Teresa Martín began a small ham-curing business in Crespos, near Salamanca. They didn't have big machines or huge factories—just hands-on work, dedication, and a love for doing things right.
Over time, their son Jacinto expanded the family dream by buying oak forests (called dehesas) in Extremadura. These lands are rich in acorns, which are the perfect food for raising the famous Iberian pigs. Now, the fourth generation of the Blázquez family is keeping the flame alive, remaining focused on honesty, animal care, and crafting the finest ham possible.
Raising Pigs the Right Way
Blázquez has over 30,000 hectares of land where their pigs roam free. That's a lot of space! Each pig is raised in a natural environment, eating acorns during a season called montanera. These acorns are packed with healthy fats, which later contribute to the ham's melt-in-the-mouth texture and deep flavour.
Not just any pig cuts. The company is picky about genetics and only selects the best animals for their top product line, known as "Admiración." They genuinely believe that how you care for animals is reflected in the taste of the food, and they never take shortcuts.
Time and Patience Make the Difference
Curing is a craft that Blázquez genuinely respects, not just a step in the process. When the pigs reach adulthood, they are handled with care and gentleness to ensure that everything is done correctly and humanely. The hams undergo salting and curing, a process that can take anywhere from 2.5 to 5 years, depending on the type of ham.
This slow process is conducted in specially designed buildings that utilise natural wind and humidity to control the drying, much like in the past. Experts carefully inspect every ham to ensure it's ageing perfectly. And trust me, they don't rush things. Some of their finest hams are cured for over 36 months.
Awards and Global Recognition
The world is starting to catch on. The "Admiración" ham from Blázquez has won the Superior Taste Award (3 stars) from the International Taste Institute in Brussels for 14 consecutive years. That's not a small thing. Their hams are now sold in over 50 countries and served in high-end restaurants worldwide.
People say it's the rich colour, the perfect fat marbling, and the soft, buttery texture that makes it stand out. One bite, and you'll understand why many call it the world's best ham.
What Does It Taste Like?
Imagine biting into a thin slice of ham that's soft and warm. It melts slowly on your tongue, releasing flavours of nuts, herbs, a little sweetness, and something earthy you can't quite name. That's the magic of Blázquez.
It's not just food—it's an experience. The texture is silky because of the oleic acid in the fat, and the taste keeps changing as you chew. That's why people say you don't eat this ham—you enjoy it.
A Company That Cares About the Planet Too
Blázquez is also big on sustainability. They're protecting over 90,000 oak trees, helping keep the land natural and full of life. They even started making organic ham and have a biogas plant to reduce waste.
They know that taking care of the earth is just as important as making great food. And that's another reason why they stand out.
Worth the Price
Yes, good ham like this is not cheap. A leg of premium jamón ibérico from Blázquez can cost hundreds of euros. But when you realise how much time, care, and love go into each piece, it makes sense. You're not just buying meat—you're buying a piece of Spanish tradition.
How to Eat It Right
To enjoy it fully, let the ham come to room temperature before eating. Cut it thin, like almost see-through. No need to hurry—just hold it in your fingers for a moment so it warms up. Enjoy it with a glass of Spanish wine, a bit of cheese, some olives, or crusty bread. It’s simple, but it’ll stay in your memory.
Conclusion
In the end, Blázquez isn't just making ham. They're creating a cultural experience, one that celebrates family, tradition, and the beauty of doing things slowly and with care. It's no wonder that food experts and everyday people around the world now consider their products to be the world's best ham. So, if you ever get a chance to try it, don't miss it....LEARN MORE
