Local product will be different from feed lot product. There is a lot of pork raised around here, both large farm and little guy. From my experience the little guys goods are better, without exception! Heirloom breeds tend to be raised by farmers with more appreciation of the end product. I worked with a woman who had raised prize winning Yorkshires, they were pretty amazing, she raised them all the same but picked what she felt was the best one for show. Can't speak to Berkshires but, I think the theory is sound.
When my wife and I announced our upcoming nuptials one of the groomsmen said he would be happy to get the hog for roasting, local, small farmer. The farmer also was a dairy farmer and used to feed the pigs on "outdated" milk brought back from stores. Our pig enjoyed chocolate milk for its last weekend a half. I may be full of pork but, it was the sweetest well flavored piece of pork I can remember in the last twenty five years! It was one helluva a party!
Closer will pretty much always be better. At least I think so.
Damn! Now I want to roast a whole hog!
I will satisfy myself with a butt for Saturday!
