As a worldly gourmand of exquisite tastes, Joel’s Place considers it a duty—and pleasure—to bring home the best flavors and cuisines from around the world. Last February 20, 2024, Joel’s Place explored the world of gourmet meats to bring Iberian Bites—an unforgettable tasting experience of the finest 100% Jamon de Bellota Iberico, distinguished by the renowned Black Label symbolizing the pinnacle of quality in Iberico ham.
To help guests truly appreciate the experience, Joel’s Place was honored to have Abel Rodriguez, proprietor of Ibericamente and a leader in Spanish food and gastronomy, as a guest speaker. Abel discussed the meticulous processes behind Jamon Iberico, from the Iberian pigs that were allowed to freely roam the oak forests to the distinguishing Green, Red, and Black Labels a ham is marked with depending on its level of curing and aging. His talk ended with a mouth-watering finale as guests witnessed the actual carving of a leg of 100% Jamon de Bellota Iberico Black Label, which was then served throughout the evening.
The second guest speaker took guests through the nuances that make truly fine wine and how wines change with age. This esteemed speaker was Paige Meneses, Managing Director and part-owner of Titania Wines. Alongside her strategic role in managing operations, Paige also leads the company’s wine education advocacy, conducting countless trainings and seminars that delve deep into the intricacies of wine and winemaking.
Turning fine cuts of Jamon Iberico into a sumptuous feast, fine wines such as the bright and refreshing Caliterra Reserva Sauvignon Blanc, Casablanca Valley, Chile, 2022 were served, providing guests a crisp acidity with citrus and tropical fruit flavors that perfectly complemented the rich and savory flavors of the ham. A bottle of Caliterra Reserca Carmenere, Colchagua Valley, Chile, 2021 was also an excellent pairing as Carmenere’s medium to full body provides enough weight to stand up to the intense flavors of Jamon Iberico without overpowering it.
These fine meat and wines are also served with Manchego cheese pairings like La Tradicion Queso Manchego Semicurado, a semi-cured Manchego cheese boasting slightly tangy and buttery notes, and Queso de Oveja Curado Artesano en Aceite de Oliva y Romero, an artisanal raw sheep’s milk cheese marinated in olive oil and rosemary.
Truly, it was an evening that both delighted and enlightened. Iberian Bites didn’t just serve guests delicious fine meats, but also the history and culture behind the delicacies—creating a memorable experience that fulfilled both body and mind.
At Joel’s Place, you can always look forward to these world-class food experiences, so stay tuned to our upcoming events!
