San Daniele del Friuli DOP
San Daniele del Friuli, Udine, Friuli-Venezia Giulia
Friuli's great prosciutto crudo — produced only in the municipality of San Daniele in the Udine hills from Italian heavy pigs, sea salt, and nothing else (no nitrates, no additives). The microclimate of San Daniele — a convergence of Adriatic sea breezes and cold Alpine air descending from the Carnic Alps — creates the unique air-drying environment. Minimum 13-month maturation; premium hams aged 24-36 months. Distinguished from Parma by a slightly sweeter, more delicate flavour, full-leg shape (with trotter attached), and the characteristic 'guitar' profile.