Miel de Asturias

Miel de Asturias is a Spanish honey with a protected geographical indication (PGI), made only in Asturias from plants found in the region. Its colour runs from light to very dark amber, aromas and taste are deep and intense, and the texture is dense because of low moisture.

The specification divides it into multi-flower honey (forest, coastal, mountain) and single-flower honey: oak, eucalyptus, sweet chestnut, heath (Erica), heather (Calluna) and strawberry tree. Several types have pollen minimums, for instance 70 % for eucalyptus and chestnut. Moisture is up to 18.5 % (strawberry tree up to 20 %, heather up to 23 %) and HMF up to 30 mg/kg.

Asturias is where the Cantabrian Mountains meet the sea, on the border between the Mediterranean and Eurosiberian regions. Coastal honey is clearer and fresher; mountain honey is dark, bitter and even savoury. Until the end of the 19th century honey was the only sweetener in rural Asturias, and hives went into dowries. Every step from uncapping to packing happens in the region, and bulk sales are banned.

Why this matters to you: look for the honey type and the control number on the label. Light coastal honey suits a mild, fresh taste; dark mountain honey or Honeydew honey suits bitter, astringent notes. Chestnut honey has its own page, and the basics are in Honey.