Enjoy the captivating world of Jamón Ibérico, where traditional Spanish farming meets culinary excellence. Venture into lush pastures and observe the Duroc piglets as they thrive on a diet of acorns, learning about the organic practices that enhance the flavor. Explore the meticulous process of feed production at the on-site mill, uncovering the secrets behind this gastronomic treasure. The journey culminates in a delightful tasting of rich, acorn-fed hams paired with exquisite Rioja wines, inviting you to savor the region’s culinary heritage and uncover the fascinating story behind every bite.
Key Points
- Visitors observe the traditional farming practices of Iberico pigs, including the growth stages of Duroc piglets in pastures and organic feeding methods.
- Guests learn about the role of olive groves, cereal fields, and an on-site animal feed mill in producing high-quality Duroc pig feed for Jamon Iberico de Bellota.
- Visitors experience a tasting of ecologically and acorn-fed Jamon Iberico, paired with Rioja wines, to appreciate the rich, nutty flavors of the artisanal ham.
- The tour highlights the commitment to preserving traditional practices, including the breeding and care of pure Spanish horses, which represent the country’s equine heritage.
- The outdoor meal setting provides a tranquil environment to savor the Jamon Iberico and Rioja wines, immersing guests in the culinary traditions of the region.
Exploring the Farm and Pig Farming
As visitors step onto the farm, they’re immediately immersed in the world of traditional Iberico pig farming.
They’ll walk through the pastures, observing the various stages of Duroc piglet growth. The pure Spanish horses roam freely nearby, adding to the pastoral setting.
Visitors explore the olive groves and cereal fields, gaining insight into the organic farming practices that are essential for producing the finest Jamon Iberico de Bellota.
At the mill, they learn how the animal feed is produced, a critical component in the pigs’ diet.
This hands-on farm experience provides a deeper appreciation for the care and attention required to raise these prized Iberico pigs.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in La Rioja.
Discovering the Duroc Piglets
The Duroc piglets captivate visitors as soon as they step into the farm’s pastures.
These distinctive reddish-brown pigs are the foundation of the prized Jamón Ibérico de Bellota. Guests observe the piglets roaming freely, foraging on acorns and herbs that impart the ham’s unique flavor.
The farm takes great pride in its herd of purebred Durocs, carefully selected for their ability to thrive on the region’s oak-studded meadows.
Visitors learn how the pigs’ diet of natural foods, including chestnuts and olives, is central to producing the complex, nutty taste of the cured ham.
Throughout the tour, the farmers share insights into the breed’s origins and the meticulous care required to raise these exceptional pigs.
Visiting the Pure Spanish Horses
Strolling through the farm’s lush pastures, visitors are captivated by the graceful movements of the pure Spanish horses. These majestic creatures, roaming freely, embody the essence of Spain’s equine heritage. As guests explore the farm, they’ll have the chance to observe the horses up close, marveling at their distinctive features and the strong bond they share with the land.
| Breed | Color | Height | Origin | Uses |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pura Raza Española | Chestnut, bay, gray | 14.2-16 hands | Iberian Peninsula | Dressage, jumping, pleasure riding |
The farm’s dedication to preserving these noble horses underscores its commitment to traditional agricultural practices, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to connect with the region’s rich cultural tapestry.
Observing the Olive Groves and Cereal Fields
Venturing deeper into the farm, visitors encounter the expansive olive groves and cereal fields that shape the landscape. Rows of gnarled olive trees stretch out, their silvery leaves rustling in the gentle breeze.
Nearby, vast stretches of golden wheat and barley sway, ready for harvest. The guide explains the vital role these crops play in the Iberian pig’s diet, providing the acorns and grains that impart the unique flavors in the cured ham.
Guests meander through the lush foliage, appreciating the harmony between the land, the animals, and the artisanal production that defines Jamón Ibérico.
This immersive experience offers a profound understanding of the farm’s sustainable practices and the close connection between the environment and the final product.
Understanding the Animal Feed Mill
As visitors move on from the captivating olive groves and cereal fields, they’re guided towards the on-site animal feed mill.
This mill plays a crucial role in the farm’s operations, providing high-quality feed for the Duroc piglets essential for creating the renowned Jamón Ibérico de Bellota.
Visitors can observe the mill’s inner workings, learning about:
- The meticulous process of grinding and mixing the organic grains, ensuring a balanced and nutritious diet for the pigs.
- The state-of-the-art machinery that efficiently processes the feed, maintaining strict quality control measures.
- The dedication of the farm’s team in meticulously maintaining the mill to uphold the integrity of the Jamón Ibérico production.
Jamón Iberico De Bellota Tasting
After exploring the captivating olive groves and gaining insights into the farm’s state-of-the-art animal feed mill, visitors are led to the highlight of the experience – the Jamón Ibérico de Bellota tasting. This exclusive tasting features ecological jamón Ibérico and the prized acorn-fed hams. Guests can savor the rich, nutty flavors of these Spanish delicacies as they sample one red and one white wine from the renowned Rioja region.
| Jamón Ibérico | Wine Pairing |
|---|---|
| Ecological Jamón Ibérico | Rioja Red Wine |
| Acorn-fed Jamón Ibérico | Rioja White Wine |
The tasting culminates in a memorable outdoor meal, where visitors can indulge in the fresh ham, hearty bread, and the perfect wine pairing – a true celebration of the region’s culinary heritage.
Sampling Rioja Wines
Following the satisfying Jamón Ibérico tasting, guests move on to sample the acclaimed wines of the Rioja region.
The tasting highlights 3 key features:
-
Guests savor 1 red and 1 white wine from renowned Rioja producers, providing a rundown of the region’s diverse offerings.
-
The wines are expertly paired with the just-tasted jamón, allowing participants to appreciate how the flavors complement each other.
-
The outdoor setting, surrounded by the farm’s olive groves and cereal fields, enhances the immersive experience, connecting the wines directly to their terroir.
Sipping these elegant Rioja wines rounds out the day’s exploration of the region’s celebrated culinary traditions.
Outdoor Meal With Fresh Ham and Wine
Upon completing the tasting of the Jamón Ibérico and Rioja wines, guests are invited to enjoy an outdoor meal featuring the fresh ham and local vintages. This alfresco dining experience allows visitors to savor the flavors of the region in a picturesque setting. The meal includes slices of the aromatic, acorn-fed ham, crusty bread, and a selection of the same Rioja red and white wines sampled earlier. Guests can relax and take in the tranquil farm surroundings as they indulge in this authentic Spanish culinary delight.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Main Course | Jamón Ibérico de Bellota |
| Sides | Freshly baked bread, Rioja red and white wines |
| Seating | Outdoor tables with scenic views |
| Duration | 1 hour |
| Price | Included in tour package |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Purchase Jamón Iberico From the Farm Directly?
Yes, visitors can purchase jamón ibérico directly from the farm during the experience. The tour includes a tasting where you can sample the farm’s own organic jamón ibérico and purchase it to take home.
Are There Any Discounts for Group Bookings or Families?
Yes, the farm offers discounts for group bookings of 4 or more people, as well as family packages. Travelers can save up to 15% on the experience when booking as a group or family.
How Long Is the Total Duration of the Farm Tour and Tasting?
The total duration of the farm tour and tasting is around 4 hours. It starts at 10:00 am and ends back at the meeting point. The experience includes farm exploration, tasting sessions, and a full outdoor meal.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Beverages to the Outdoor Meal?
No, guests are not permitted to bring their own food or beverages to the outdoor meal during the Jamón Iberico tasting experience. The experience includes a full meal with the organic ham, bread, and wines from the Rioja region.
Are the Farm and Facilities Open to the Public Outside of the Tours?
The farm and facilities are not generally open to the public outside of the scheduled tours. The tours provide exclusive access and an in-depth look at the jamón Iberico production process that would not be available otherwise.
Recap
Experiencing the traditional Jamón Ibérico farming is a captivating journey through Spain’s culinary heritage. Visitors can observe the unique Duroc pigs, learn about organic practices, and savor the rich, acorn-fed ham paired with exquisite Rioja wines. This immersive experience celebrates the region’s long-standing farming methods and showcases the meticulous process behind the production of the renowned Jamón Ibérico.