World's Best Ham by PataNegra.dk

The search for some of Extremadura's finest Iberian ham has entered its final stage, and this year the numbers tell an interesting story: 18 hams entered the competition, eight trained experts have been involved in the judging process, and only six will reach the final stage . The competition is the XXVII Premio Espiga Jamones Ibéricos D.O.P. Dehesa de Extremadura, one of the established food awards dedicated to Iberian ham from the protected designation of origin. Organised by Caja Rural de Extremadura with the technical direction of the Centre for Scientific and Technological Research of Extremadura (CICYTEX), the competition is designed to recognise quality in one of the region's most important traditional foods. But choosing a high-quality Iberian ham isn't as simple as looking at its appearance or knowing the producer's name. The competition uses blind tasting, trained judges, and detailed sensory assessments to examine what is actually inside each piece. This yea...

The FIFA World Cup Final is the biggest stage in international football, attracting millions of viewers and bringing together leaders from sport, business, and culture. While Spain celebrated its historic victory at the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final in New Jersey, another symbol of Spanish excellence was capturing attention beyond the stadium: Cinco Jotas' world-renowned Jamón Ibérico . For Cinco Jotas, the tournament was never just about being present at football's biggest event. It was about introducing the rich heritage of 100% acorn-fed Iberian ham to an international audience and demonstrating why this iconic product is considered one of Spain's greatest culinary treasures. Sharing the Art of Jamón Ibérico As part of the World Cup celebrations, Cinco Jotas participated in two exclusive experiences: Casa España – Little Spain in New York and the VIP hospitality suites at MetLife Stadium. These venues welcomed diplomats, business executives, sports personalities, media repr...

Bruno Mars is known for delivering unforgettable live performances, but during his recent concert in Madrid, it wasn't just the music that had fans talking. The Grammy-winning singer created one of the most memorable moments of his European tour when he stepped on stage with a leg of Iberian ham and attempted to slice it in front of thousands of fans. The unexpected scene unfolded during one of his sold-out shows at Madrid's Riyadh Air Metropolitano Stadium as the audience cheered. Paak appeared carrying the ham before placing it on a traditional ham stand. Bruno Mars then picked up the knife and gave slicing the famous Spanish delicacy a try. Although his technique made it clear he wasn't a professional jamonero , the singer laughed throughout the experience and happily sampled a few slices. The crowd responded with loud applause, turning the lighthearted moment into one of the highlights of the evening. Social Media Couldn't Get Enough It didn't take long for vid...

When people think of celebrity gifts, they usually imagine expensive watches, rare cars, designer clothing, or maybe a luxury vacation. So when news emerged that David Beckham had gifted Gordon Ramsay a premium 100% Iberico Bellota ham from Spain, some people were surprised. Food lovers, however, instantly understood why the gift was such a big deal. This wasn't just a piece of cured meat wrapped in fancy packaging. It was one of the most respected food products in the world, a delicacy that chefs, restaurateurs, and serious food enthusiasts often place in the same category as fine wine, truffles, and caviar. For someone like Gordon Ramsay, a man who has spent decades obsessing over ingredients, quality, and craftsmanship, the present couldn't have been more fitting. A Gift Chosen With Thought One reason the story has attracted so much attention is that it feels genuinely personal. Beckham could have chosen almost anything. After all, when you're one of the most famous ath...

For years, cured ham has been paired with wine, cheese, olives, or rustic bread. Chocolate, however, rarely enters the conversation. Spanish ham producer Monte Nevado is trying to change that perception with a bold gastronomic concept that blends premium Iberian ham with cocoa-inspired flavors and artisanal breads. At first glance, the idea sounds unusual. Ham and chocolate? Yet once chefs and food experts began experimenting with textures and aromas, the combination began to make sense in ways many diners didn't expect. A Different Kind of Tasting Experience Monte Nevado's latest "Maridaje Inesperado," loosely translated as "Unexpected Pairing," focuses on creating sensory experiences rather than serving traditional charcuterie boards. Instead of simply presenting slices of Jamón Ibérico alongside wine, the company explores how sweetness, bitterness, saltiness, and fat interact on the palate. Some pairings are surprisingly subtle. One standout tasting comb...