Jamones Blázquez
Our producer
Since 1932, the Blázquez family has raised and cured Iberian pigs across more than 30,000 hectares of dehesa — the cork and holm oak pastureland of Salamanca, Extremadura and Andalucía. Founded by Isidoro Blázquez and Teresa Martín, the house is now in its fourth generation, serving tables in over 50 countries. Tradition Delloye brings their products to Québec.
Jamones Blázquez's craft, step by step: a long process with no shortcuts.
The ham is rubbed with coarse salt and left to rest. The salt draws out water and encourages natural fermentation.
The ham keeps losing water. The piece reaches 65–70% residual moisture.
Time specific to each type of ham, country and producer. Bacteria and yeasts develop and bring the aromas.
Durations vary with the weight and type of piece.
In Spain, a coloured label certifies the pig's breed and diet. Here are the four official classifications.
Pigs 100% of Iberico breed, raised free-range on the dehesa and fed exclusively on acorns during the Montanera (October to March). The highest classification.
Crossbreed (at least 50% Iberico), also free-range acorn-fed during the Montanera. Excellent quality, mixed breed.
Pigs raised outdoors, fed natural cereals and legumes produced on the estate, without access to acorns.
Pigs raised in intensive farming, fed cereals. Still 100% or 50% Iberico depending on breed, but without free-range grazing.
"Bellota" (acorn, in Spanish) means the animal fed on acorns free-range for at least 4 months. Our in-stock pieces are all 100% Iberico, black label — the highest quality, cured for up to 48 months.