Berkshire Pigs: The Gold Standard of Pork
- Zoey O
- Feb 1
- 2 min read
Berkshire pork is often called the Wagyu of pork, and for good reason.
Berkshire pigs are known for:
Deep marbling that creates juicy, tender meat
Rich, clean flavor without being greasy
Superior texture that holds up beautifully whether grilled, roasted, or slow-cooked
Historically, Berkshires were prized long before industrial pork production existed. They thrive outdoors, adapt well to pasture-based systems, and grow at a natural pace, not rushed, not forced. That slower growth allows flavor to develop the way nature intended.
Duroc Pigs: Bold Flavor & Beautiful Fat
Duroc pigs bring something equally important to the table: incredible fat quality.
Duroc pork is known for:
Excellent intramuscular fat (hello, juicy chops and bacon)
A slightly richer, more savory flavor
Consistent tenderness even in larger cuts
They’re hardy, calm animals that do well on pasture and pair beautifully with Berkshire genetics. That balance gives us pork that’s flavorful and reliable, the kind customers come back for again and again.
Why Breed Choice Matters on Pasture
Not all pigs are meant to live outside, and that’s where breed matters most.
Berkshire and Duroc pigs:
Are well-suited for pasture-raised systems
Handle weather changes better than industrial hybrids
Thrive on a non-GMO, corn- and soy-free diet
Express natural behaviors like rooting, grazing, and socializing
Happy pigs make better pork.
Flavor You Can Taste, Values You Can Feel
Choosing Berkshire and Duroc pigs means:
No rushing growth with shortcuts
No bland, watery meat
No compromising animal welfare for efficiency
Instead, we raise pigs slowly and intentionally, giving them room to be pigs and time to develop flavor. That care shows up in every bite, from bacon and chops to roasts, sausages, and lard.
From Our Pasture to Your Plate
When you buy pork from The Crow’s Croft, you’re not just buying meat, you’re supporting:
Heritage breeds worth preserving
Ethical, pasture-based farming
Small-scale agriculture in Central Oregon
We believe pork should taste like something. Berkshire and Duroc pigs help make that happen.
If you’ve ever wondered why our pork tastes different, now you know.




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