5J Cinco Jotas Snack

Tasting Note

- by -

Teresa de la Cierva

Journalist
A member of the Spanish Royal Gastronomy Academy
Vice-President of the Gastronomy Academy of Madrid

Appearance

There are three tones in the colour of the loin which range from bright red in the well-cured areas to pink. Shine appears at room temperature caused by the white marbled fat and small white "crystals" which are the undeniable mark of low salinity and gradual, slow curing. The muscular fibres show hints of pink which denotes prolonged curing and the purity of the race.

Texture

The meat in the top third of the ham is soft, juicy, unctuous…it melts in your hands. The tip and knuckle feature a more fibrous and firm-bodied consistency which increases the chewing time and enjoyment.

Aroma

Intense, long, with notes of acorns, wet grass, thyme… The opening is clean and fresh with the roasting and wood flourishing… The aromas place the senses on guard and make you start enjoying the ham.

Taste

A taste of acorns, toasted hazelnuts, wet wood and wild flowers is detected. Some rashers from the tip feature a flavour that takes on a sweeter and fattier note. The persistence in the mouth is very long. The fifth flavour, the umami, is present and makes the taste buds water. Note: The tasting notes were taken at a temperature of 24ºC which is the recommended temperature for sampling.