Despite being essential to modern day Spanish cuisine, paprika was only introduced to Spain after Christopher Columbus brought back chiles from his voyages to the Americas. When Ferdinand and Isabella, two of the monarchs of Spain, tasted chiles for the first time they were amazed by the flavors and soon the monks of the La Vera region were cultivating chiles all over the place, eventually creating paprika from the chiles. For a long while however, it was only the monks and royalty that were able to enjoy this food. As chiles spread all over Europe, Spain was widely unamused by the spice in general, and the monks were able to get their paprika making down to an art. Paprika became increasingly popular in everyday cuisine during the 17th century as more people opened up to the idea of the spice in their food and it became more accessible to the public. Pimentón de la Vera, as paprika from this area was called, became a prized ingredient.

La Vera is a very beautiful region with a history just as rich as the flavor of the paprika it produces. It would be impossible to discuss the pimentón without also discussing La Vera. This place was once home to Carlos the Fifth, a Spanish Emperor, so many people visit the area to explore the path of the emperor. Since this beautiful region is only about two hours from Madrid, it is a popular destination for tourists who want to stray from the regular path. Throughout its history, La Vera is a region that has welcomed anyone who wants to see the beautiful waters and lush greenery of the area. There is also some very beautiful architecture there that students from around the world come to study.

Today, the most coveted and delicious paprika comes from near the original monastery garden where the monks first began growing chiles and making paprika. This garden was located in the Titer River Valley region of La Vera Spain. Paprika produced here is thought to be the absolute best quality ever produced.

This paprika is so unique because it has been produced the same way for hundreds of years. It is a food under the Protected Denomination of Origin, so its production is carefully monitored and no other paprika can be called La Vera. This paprika is full of flavor and it is praised for its incredible lasting presence in Spanish food.

La Vera Smoked Sweet Paprika tastes like chiles with a smoky overtone. It is deeply rich and an exceptionally flavorful paprika.

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