Prosciutto Cinta Senese DOP ~8 kg

Prosciutto di Cinta Senese DOP is the supreme prosciutto of Tuscany — produced from the leg of the Cinta Senese DOP pig, raised semi-wild in the Sienese hills, aged for 24 months in a craft process that transforms each ~8 kg leg into a masterpiece of flavour, aroma and complexity. The meat is vivid red with pronounced natural marbling; the fat is white-pink, sweet and aromatic — a distinguishing feature of Cinta Senese that no intensively farmed pig can replicate.

🐖 What makes this prosciutto different from all others

Cinta Senese is the oldest pig breed of Tuscany — already depicted in Ambrogio Lorenzetti's 1338 frescoes in the Palazzo Pubblico di Siena. Raised semi-wild in oak forests and open pastures, it feeds on acorns, chestnuts and wild roots that transfer their aroma directly into the meat. The natural marbling — the fat veins running through the muscle — is more pronounced than any other Italian pig breed, and during ageing it becomes a softness and savouriness that is recognisable at the very first bite.

The EU DOP designation guarantees that every leg comes exclusively from pigs born, raised and processed in Tuscany according to a certified production code — no compromise on provenance.

📋 Product details

🔪 How to slice and enjoy

Slice by hand with a long, flexible ham knife or a meat slicer — almost translucent slices of 1–2 mm. Serve at room temperature without exception: remove the leg from the fridge at least 20–30 minutes before slicing. Allow the slices to oxidise for 2–3 minutes — only then does the full aromatic profile open: notes of spices, pepper, acorn and dry hay that persist long on the palate.

Enjoy Prosciutto di Cinta Senese DOP on its own, on Tuscan unsalted bread, or at most with fresh seasonal figs. Any additional condiment distracts from a product that needs nothing.

🔗 Related products

• Prosciutto Crudo Toscano — in sliced portions, same tradition
• Prosciutto Gran Riserva 24 months — whole leg without Cinta Senese DOP
• Cinta Senese DOP Charcuterie — the full Cinta Senese collection
• All Tuscan Prosciutti — the full collection

🍷 Pairing suggestions

Prosciutto di Cinta Senese has an intense, savoury flavour with hints of game — a strong character that calls for structured wines: Brunello di Montalcino DOCG for special occasions, Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG or a Chianti Classico Riserva for everyday use. Avoid delicate whites and light sparkling wines — the complexity of Cinta Senese overpowers them. With food: Tuscan unsalted bread, fresh figs, chestnut honey, fresh Tuscan pecorino.

🍽️ For restaurants and HoReCa

Prosciutto di Cinta Senese DOP is the flagship product for sliced meat trolleys and tasting menus built around territorial identity. EU DOP certification, indigenous Tuscan breed, 24 months ageing — three narrative assets of the highest perceived value at the table. For wholesale and recurring supply: info@salumeriatoscana.shop.

🚚 Chilled shipping across Europe

Vacuum-sealed in refrigerated insulated packaging at +2°C / +4°C. Dispatch days: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday — delivery by Friday.

EU shipping rates: 0–5 kg → €19 · 5–10 kg → €26 · over 10 kg → €33.

❓ FAQ — Prosciutto di Cinta Senese DOP

What is Cinta Senese DOP?
The oldest indigenous Tuscan pig breed, raised semi-wild in the Sienese hills. The EU DOP guarantees that every leg comes exclusively from pigs born, raised and processed in Tuscany according to a certified production code.

How is it different from regular prosciutto?
Pronounced natural marbling, sweet white-pink fat that melts on the palate, and an intense aromatic profile with spice and game notes — characteristics that cannot be replicated with intensively farmed breeds.

How do I store the whole leg?
Cool, dry place. After the first slicing session, cover the cut surface with food paper. Shelf-life 12 months from delivery under optimal conditions.

Do I need a meat slicer?
A meat slicer or a long, flexible ham knife is strongly recommended — slices of 1–2 mm are ideal to appreciate the softness and aromatic complexity.

Do you ship to the UK and Europe?
Yes. The ~8 kg leg falls in the EU shipping category 5–10 kg → €26, with certified refrigerated packaging.