'Nduja Crespone

Tasting Notes of the Curator

’Nduja Crespone opens with an immediate aroma of cured pork and sun-dried Calabrian chili, warm and inviting rather than sharply aggressive. On the palate, it delivers a rounded heat that builds slowly, allowing the natural sweetness of pork fat to cushion the spice. The texture is luxuriously soft and spreadable, designed to dissolve easily when warmed, coating pasta, vegetables, or bread with a deep, savory intensity.

Unlike more rustic, sharply fermented ’nduja styles, Crespone leans toward balance and consistency. The chili brings warmth and color rather than outright fire, making it versatile for both finishing touches and foundational cooking. When heated, it releases a fragrant oil that carries flavor beautifully across a dish, adding depth without overpowering other ingredients. This is ’nduja meant to be used—folded into sauces, stirred into stews, or spooned generously without restraint.

Pairings and Suggestions

’Nduja Crespone shines in everyday cooking where bold flavor is welcome.

Try it with:

Pasta tossed with olive oil, garlic, and a spoon of ’nduja for instant Calabrian heat Spread thinly over warm sourdough or focaccia, finished with honey or burrata Stirred into tomato sauce, lentils, or bean stews for depth and spice Melted into butter or olive oil as a base for seafood, vegetables, or eggs

For drinks, pair with:

Wines: Nero d’Avola, Primitivo, Montepulciano d’Abruzzo Liquors: Amaro, grappa, or a dry gin cocktail to cut through the richness

A Modern Take on a Southern Italian Classic

Rooted in the flavors of Calabria, ’nduja has long been a food of preservation, ingenuity, and bold taste. ’Nduja Crespone honors this tradition while adapting it for modern kitchens—offering a larger, practical format and a balanced profile that suits frequent cooking. It reflects how heritage foods evolve beyond their villages, finding new life on contemporary tables without losing their identity. This is not a museum piece; it’s a living ingredient, meant to be shared, experimented with, and enjoyed generously.

Storage Instructions

Keep refrigerated. Once opened, store tightly sealed and consume within the recommended period. For best texture and flavor, allow to soften slightly at room temperature before use.