Authentic Jamón Ibérico Tasting Experience in Barcelona
Taste through seven varieties of this iconic Spanish delight, each expertly paired with wine
If you’ve been wandering around Spain, you’ve probably seen Iberian jamón hanging out like a VIP on bar counters or taking over entire grocery aisles. But what makes this ham so special, and is it really worth all the fuss? Our jamón master would say absolutely, but don’t just take their word for it—decide for yourself during this 1.5-hour masterclass. Throughout, you’ll sample seven varieties while sipping specially paired wine and cava. Don’t miss this chance to taste Spain’s finest!
- Meet your guide in Passatge de Simó, 26. Barcelona
- Jamón Masterclass
- Sample seven varieties
- Drink pairings
- Cava and wine
- Small group size
- History of Iberian jamón
- Your tour finishes inside the jamón shop at Passatge de Simó, 26
Your jamón masterclass kicks off in central Barcelona just in the corner between Pasaje Simó 26 and Calle Marina 261, where you'll meet your expert guide and dive headfirst into the delicious world of Iberian ham. Over the following 1.5 hours, you'll taste all seven varieties of jamón, from the Gran Reserva to the prized Jamón 100% ibérico de bellota.
In between mouthwatering bites and sips of wine and cava, your guide will spill the secrets of what makes each type special. By the end, you'll feel like you’ve earned your jamón connoisseur badge—ready to impress your friends (and your taste buds) for the rest of your trip in Spain.
Jamón Masterclass in Barcelona Description:
Your 1.5-hour tour includes:
Expert guide on jamón culture
Tastings of all seven types of jamón
Wine and cava pairings
A small group setting
Meet your Jamón Master
Ready for an unforgettable jamón experience? DYou'll meet your guide—a true expert on all things jamón—at your preferred time, at a specialized jamón shop in central Barcelona, in Passatge Simó, 36 Over the following 1.5 hours, you’ll learn more about jamón than you ever thought possible. This is the perfect bite-sized experience to squeeze in between your other exciting Barcelona explorations.
Step Into the World of Spanish Jamón
Now that you're settled in, it’s time to dig into the rich history of Iberian jamón. This delicious delicacy has been enjoyed for centuries, first gaining fame in the 15th and 16th centuries when Salamanca’s producers supplied it to the Spanish Royal Family. Today, you'll find jamón in every part of Spain, from bustling Barcelona to small rural towns. In fact, it’s such a beloved food that it can be spotted everywhere hanging in bars, sold in markets, and proudly displayed in homes. But how do you choose which to dig into with so many varieties?
Discover Seven Flavors of Iberian Jamón
Today’s masterclass makes decision-making easy—you’ll sample seven varieties, each with its own distinct qualities. Starting with Jamón Gran Reserva and finishing with the coveted Jamón 100% ibérico de bellota, you’ll discover the delicate differences between each type. From how the pigs are raised to what they eat and how long the ham is aged, every little detail plays a role in the taste, texture, and overall quality. Here’s what you’ll taste:
Jamón Gran Reserva – A classic variety, aged for at least 15 months to perfection for a rich and traditional flavor.
Jamón 50% ibérico – A balanced flavor from part Iberian pigs, offering a slightly nutty taste. The racial percentage of the pigs affects the flavor and juiciness of the meat, which has a more intense and succulent taste the higher the Iberian purity
Jamón 50% ibérico de campo – from pigs raised in total freedom and fed with natural resources found in the dehesas, this jamón has a fuller, more robust flavor.
Jamón 50% ibérico de bellota – Sweet, nutty, and earthy, thanks to the acorn-heavy diet of the pigs. Aged between 18 and 36 months, depending on the piece, allowing the ham's characteristics to fully develop
Paleta 50% ibérica de bellota – A shoulder cut with a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture. It goes through a curing process of more than 24 months, during which it gradually dries and acquires its characteristic aromas and flavors
Taquitos de 50% ibérico de bellota – Bite-sized pieces that deliver a concentrated burst of flavor. Its slow maturation process allows the ham to reach its optimal curing point, offering an intense flavor and a juicy, tender texture
Jamón 100% ibérico de bellota – The finest jamón, renowned for its deep, rich flavors and smooth texture. This ham comes from 100% purebred Iberian pigs and is achieved through a long and costly process that can take more than 4 years
Pair it with Wine and Cava
What’s the proper way to enjoy jamón in Spain? With a glass of wine or cava, of course! As you move through each delicious variety of jamón, your guide will hand you a perfectly matched drink to bring out the unique flavors. Cava’s bubbles balance the richness of the ham, while a good red wine adds depth to the nuttier varieties.
By the end of the tasting, you’ll not only know your jamón, but you’ll also understand how to pair them and what each type is best for. You’re officially an expert!
What you get with this tour
Frequently Asked Questions
Meeting and ending point
This activity will start in the corner between Pasaje Simó 26 and Calle Marina 261, in the Enrique Tomás Shop. You will end at the meeting point
What to bring?
A healthy appetite!
Is this tour run by The Tour Guy?
This food tour is operated by one of our trusted and vetted partners in Barcelona
What if I have concerns about my mobility on this tour?
If you have any doubts about your mobility, please let us know beforehand. This tour is primarily stationary and is suitable for wheelchairs
What happens if it rains?
We run our Barcelona food tours rain or shine
Is there any chance my tour might be canceled?
On the rare occasion the tour is canceled, we'll inform you as soon as possible and offer you an alternative date or a refund
Is it possible The Tour Guy will change the time of this Barcelona food tour?
If your tour time changes, we'll inform you as soon as possible
Is there a dress code to join this Barcelona food tour?
While there is not a specific dress code, you will be expected to be wearing shoes and a shirt to enter the tasting venue
How much walking is involved in this tour?
This food tour does not require any walking
How comprehensive is this Jamón Ibérico tasting tour?
This is a 1,5-hour tour for a deep experience and knowledge of jamón ibérico but if you are curious about other tastes and Spanish cuisine we suggest considering our Barcelona Food & Wine Tour with a Local Sommelier, the Barcelona Small Group Tapas Tour in El Born or even our Eat Like a Local Food Tour in Barcelona
Is lunch or dinner included in the price of the tour?
Throughout the activity, you’ll enjoy tastings of seven varieties of Iberian Jamón. The majority of our guests find this enough food to replace a light meal
What if I have food allergies, intolerances, or other dietary requirements?
Please contact us in advance so we can do our best to accommodate your needs. We will work with our hosts to provide you with a fitting option. However, due to the nature of this tour, it is not vegetarian or vegan-friendly
Are drinks included in the price of the tour?
Yes, wine and cava are included in the price of this tour. Additional drinks can be purchased
Can I bring my kids, and do I have to pay for them?
Due to the nature of this tour, it is suitable for those aged 14 and above and everyone will be charged the same set rate. If you’re looking for a Barcelona tour that’s perfect for the entire family, check out our Eat Like a Local Food Tour in Barcelona
Does this tour include hotel pickup?
Hotel pickup is not included on this tour. You'll meet your guide at the designated meeting point in central Barcelona
Where does this tour end?
This tour finishes after your last jamón tasting at the original venue at Passatge de Simó, 26. Our guides are happy to offer recommendations if you'd like to continue exploring Barcelona afterward
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