Castro y González receives the Superior Taste Award.

Castro y González: The 100% Iberian Acorn-Fed Ham that Conquers the Gastronomic Olympus

The Iberian industry has welcomed the year 2026 with news of great relevance for the Spanish gourmet sector. The 100% Iberian Acorn-Fed Ham from the prestigious firm Castro y González, based in the emblematic town of Guijuelo (Salamanca), has been honored with the Superior Taste Award. This recognition is not just another prize; it is the highest distinction granted by the International Taste Institute in Brussels, achieving an impressive global score of 91%, which earns it the coveted 3 stars.

A Recognition of Sensory Excellence

The evaluation process to obtain this seal is extremely rigorous and is based on blind tastings conducted by a panel of experts. In this edition, the jury was composed of more than 250 professionals from 20 different nationalities, including renowned Michelin-starred chefs and internationally prestigious sommeliers.

The broken-down results of the sensory analysis for Castro y González are proof of its exceptional quality. The total score of 91% is supported by outstanding specific ratings:

• First impression: 92.6%, demonstrating the product’s immediate impact on the palate.
• Olfactory phase: 90.5%, highlighting the depth and characteristic aromas of the dehesa (pasturelands).
• Visual, texture, and flavor categories: 89.1%, confirming a perfect balance in all its organoleptic facets.

This year, the competition has been fierce, and the fact that only seven hams worldwide have reached the maximum distinction of 3 stars underscores the exclusive nature of the Guijuelo product.

The Prestige of the International Taste Institute

With two decades of history, the International Taste Institute has established itself as the world leader in flavor certification. Its methodology is based on the International Hedonic Sensory Analysis, evaluating thousands of products from more than 100 countries. The Superior Taste Award seal is widely recognized in the food and beverage industry as one of the most prestigious certifications, serving as a guarantee of supreme quality for the final consumer.

The Producers’ Vision

For brothers Miguel and Aurelio González Castro, co-owners of the brand, this award represents the best possible start to the year. According to their statements, the prize is an endorsement of their business philosophy, focused on prioritizing quality above all else. For Castro y González, this success reinforces their position in the global market as a company that strives for constant excellence to satisfy the most demanding palates.

Versatility for the Consumer

Aware that a product of this category must be accessible for different consumption moments, the company offers its award-winning 100% Iberian acorn-fed ham in multiple formats. Customers can purchase it as a whole piece (leg), or in more practical formats such as knife-carved slices (vacuum-packed or in a protective atmosphere) and even deboned pieces.

In conclusion, the recognition obtained by Castro y González is not only a triumph for the owning family and for Guijuelo, but for the entire Spanish gastronomy. It places Iberian ham once again at the pinnacle of international delicatessen products, reaffirming that tradition, respect for the animal, and care in the curing process remain the keys to success in world-class cuisine.