This intensely flavored, cured Paleta shoulder ham from acorn-fed Iberico pigs is a sublime meat experience. The "Paleta" ham comes from the front legs of the Iberico pig, smaller than the rear leg ham, called Jamon. Because it's smaller, it's cured for a shorter period of time, so the flavor of paleta is a bit more immature and more intense than that of the rear end leg, called Jamon. This shoulder ham is whole, boneless, for easy slicing. Considered one of the best hams in the world, Iberico de Bellota is produced from the Spanish Pata Negra breed of black-hoofed pigs. Iberico pigs are raised free range, foraging for acorns (bellota) and grasses, developing meat that is high in fat (healthy, monounsaturated fat) and very richly flavored. The secret is in the free-range method and an exclusive acorn-only diet that gives it a sweet, buttery flavor. The meat is salted, cured and dried carefully and the final product is absolutely mouthwatering - sweet and buttery with an intense and rich aroma and delicate texture. It is found only in Spain, and only exported to the United States by Embutidos Fermin.