Culatello di Zibello DOP 18 Mesi is an Italian cured meat produced by Antica Ardenga, from the Bassa Parmense area in the province of Parma. It carries the DOP protected designation of origin, and this selection is aged for at least 18 months.

It is made from the central portion of the pork thigh, carefully salted by hand with sea salt, then encased in a natural pig’s bladder and tied with string in a traditional web-like pattern. Extended ageing shapes its character, while the version offered here is sold as a peeled half, vacuum-packed and ready to slice.

It is characterised by pronounced sweetness and a complex aromatic profile, best appreciated when thinly sliced. It can be served on its own as an appetiser or with plain bread, allowing its flavour to take centre stage.