Israel Romero / Thursday, September 18, 2025 / Categories: Blog How do Italians behave when buying Spanish gourmet products? How Italians behave when buying Spanish gourmet products Made in Spain Gourmet has witnessed growing interest from Italians in Spanish gourmet products. Although Italian cuisine is one of the most globally recognized, Italians have increasingly begun to value the high-quality products that Spain offers. This trend is reflected in online purchases of products such as olive oils, hams, wines, and traditional sweets. Below, we will explore the Spanish gourmet products most popular among Italian consumers and why these products fit so well with their refined palate. The profile of the Italian gourmet consumer Italy is famous for its love of good food, culinary tradition, and wine. The Mediterranean diet, which shares many similarities with the Spanish one, is a fundamental pillar in Italians’ daily lives. As in Spain, Italians value the authenticity and quality of the products they consume. Consumers from Made in Spain Store in Italy look for products with natural ingredients, intense flavors, and an artisanal touch that complements their culinary traditions. Many of them also have a high appreciation for products with protected designation of origin and those produced using traditional methods, which gives them a sense of exclusivity and authenticity. Most demanded Spanish gourmet products in Italy Extra virgin olive oil Spanish olive oil is one of the products most appreciated by Italians. Spain is the world’s largest producer of olive oil, and Italians, who are very demanding about oil quality, look for varieties that complement their cuisine. The Spanish regions of Andalusia, Castilla-La Mancha, Extremadura, and Catalonia produce some of the most popular oils, especially the Picual, Arbequina, Cornicabra, Arbosana, Sikitita, Lucio, Manzanilla, and Hojiblanca. Why they prefer it: Spanish olive oil offers a range of flavors from mild and fruity to more bitter and peppery, making it ideal for salads, pastas, and even as a finishing touch on many Italian dishes. Additionally, Spanish oil often has a less pronounced profile than some Italian oils, making it very versatile. They particularly like Lagar del Soto (Manzanilla), Oro La Senda (Cornicabra), Isbilya (Sikitita) and Oleum Alcazaba (Lucio and Picual). 100% Iberian acorn-fed pata negra ham The Iberian ham is another star product at Made in Spain Store, and its popularity in Italy keeps growing. The acorn-fed ham, that is, 100% Iberian breed with the black label, with its deep flavor and smooth texture, is a delicacy that Italians can’t help but enjoy. Although Italy has a long tradition of cured meats, Iberian ham stands out for its unique curing process and the quality of the meat. Why they prefer it: Italians value Iberian ham for its intense flavor, on par with other traditional cured meats such as prosciutto crudo. However, the more complex and delicate taste of acorn-fed Iberian ham makes it a delight for Italian gourmets, who enjoy this jewel of Spanish gastronomy on special occasions. Special mention to the brands most consumed there: Beher (DO Guijuelo), Maldonado and Señorío de Montanera (DO Extremadura), Domecq (DO Jabugo). Spanish cheeses Spanish cheeses are also in high demand in Italy, especially varieties like Manchego cheese (sheep’s milk), Cabrales (Asturian blue cheese), and Idiazábal (smoked sheep’s cheese). Although Italy is known for its cheeses, Italians appreciate the quality and diversity of Spanish cheeses, which offer something different yet equally delicious. Why they prefer it: Many Italians look for cheeses with intense flavors and a smooth texture, characteristics shared with Italian cheeses such as pecorino (sheep’s cheese). Manchego, for example, offers a perfect balance between flavor and texture that differs from Italian sheep cheeses. Manchego comes from a pure breed that has not been crossed with another breed in the last 10 centuries, so it’s normal that Italians appreciate and notice those unique Manchego textures. In this case, all our bets are well received there: Ojos del Guadiana, La Casota, Los Villajos and Quesería 1605. In particular, Manchego with Spanish black truffle is highly appreciated due to its different production method. The Italian truffled Pecorino is made by injecting a truffle-based paste, whereas the La Solana truffled sheep cheese embeds winter black truffle, the good one (Tuber melanosporum), and that is noticeable in the cheese’s flavor. [caption id="attachment_46911" align="aligncenter" width="600"] Spain’s liquid gold: secrets your palate deserves to discover[/caption] Spanish wine Spanish wine has a growing presence in Italy, especially varieties like Tempranillo, Albariño, Ribera del Duero and Cava. As in Spain, wine is a fundamental part of daily life in Italy, so Italians seek products that offer superior quality and a unique story. Spanish wine is well known for its intensity and complex flavor profiles. Why they prefer it: Cava has gained ground in Italy as an alternative to Prosecco, due to its traditional production method and refreshing flavor. In addition, Spanish red and white wines offer excellent value for money, making them an attractive option to accompany all kinds of Italian dishes. In our case, both Vins el Cep and Pere Ventura are the most demanded among the cavas, and Muga among the wines. Nougats and Christmas sweets Although traditionally associated with Spain, turrones have been well received by Italians, especially during Christmas. The Turrón Alemany, is very popular at Made in Spain Store. These sweets, made from almonds, sugar, and honey, are similar to traditional Italian sweets but with a unique taste. Why they prefer it: Italians appreciate the quality of the ingredients, such as top-quality almonds and the soft or crunchy texture of turrón. Its delicate flavor makes it a perfect sweet for Christmas celebrations, which both Italians and Spaniards enjoy with their families. Gourmet preserves (fish and seafood) Spanish gourmet seafood and fish preserves are another favorite product among Italians. Cantabrian anchovies, mussels and tuna are some of the most popular preserves. These preserves are not only delicious but are also made using traditional methods that retain the fresh and authentic taste of the sea. Why they prefer it: Italians have a strong tradition of consuming high-quality preserves, so Spanish gourmet products appeal to them for their freshness, flavor, and authenticity. Spanish preserves perfectly complement the appetizers and light dishes of the Italian Mediterranean diet. Why do Italians love Spanish gourmet products? Spanish gourmet products have gained popularity in Italy due to several factors: Similarity with Italian culinary tradition: Italians look for products that complement their own traditional ingredients, and Spanish products such as olive oil, ham, and cheeses are similar to those they consume daily. Quality and authenticity: Italian consumers value the quality and story behind each product. Artisanal production and protected designations of origin are decisive factors when choosing gourmet products. Diversity of flavors: Spanish products offer a wide range of flavors, from mild and fruity to intense and cured, which appeals to Italians who enjoy diversity in their cuisine. Interest from Italians in Spanish gourmet products continues to grow, especially in online stores like Made in Spain Store. From high-quality olive oils to delicious Iberian hams and exceptional wines, Italians are discovering the richness of Spanish gastronomy. These products not only complement their Mediterranean diet but also offer new culinary experiences that integrate perfectly into their gastronomic traditions. AUTHOR: Israel Romero, CEO of Made in Spain Gourmet. Spain's Premium Brand: A Dream to Build Together Made in Cantábrico: the flavor of the North on your table Print 5 Rate this article: No rating Please login or register to post comments.