A German resident in Leipzig specializes in offering the finest Italian ham.

In the heart of Leipzig's Maedler-Passage, the Gourmetage has become a paradise for gourmets, offering a vast selection of antipasti, cheese, wines, and spirits. Among the array of delectable items, Raffaele Bruno, the star of the counter, stands out, specialising in Parma ham, a product he passionately describes as having a delicate pink meat, brilliantly white fat, and a special sweetness that makes it irresistible.

Raffaele's expertise in Parma ham is not just a title, but an honour, having been nominated as a certified Parma ham specialist by the Consorzio del Prosciutto di Parma, the consortium that awards this prestigious accolade. To earn this recognition, Raffaele had to apply, answer questions, and prove his knowledge to the consortium.

Every Parma ham comes from special pig breeds raised only in the Italian province of Parma. The feed for these animals is mainly whey, a byproduct of Parmesan cheese production. The curing process for Parma ham takes at least 12 to 18 months, during which every step, from the pig to the finished product, is monitored without gaps. Specialists test the ripeness of Parma ham using a horse bone.

Raffaele believes that Parma ham is so special due to its strict controls and unique production process. He emphasises that a good Parma ham is never rancid, smoked, or has other dominant flavors. The Parma ham consortium sees the specialist accolade as a way to carry their quality promise to the world.

With nearly 30 years of experience in the gastronomy and retail of Italian fine food, Raffaele has made the Gourmetage in Leipzig the only store in the city with this Parma ham specialist accolade. For Italians, Raffaele believes that Parma ham is the best, and he is proud to share this culinary treasure with the people of Leipzig.

The Gourmetage in Leipzig's Maedler-Passage is indeed a treasure trove for those seeking a taste of Italy. With Raffaele Bruno at the helm, customers can be assured of the authenticity and quality of the Parma ham they savour, making each bite a true gastronomic delight.