Balsamic Vinegar
White Balsamic Vinegar
Balsamic Glaze
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Balsamic Vinegar of Modena (Aceto Balsamico di Modena)
Balsamic vinegar is one of the most famous condiments to come out of Italy. Balsamic Vinegar of Modena IGP is made with aged grape must and wine vinegar.
This is the most popular type of balsamic vinegar - it comes in a range of ages to give different flavour profiles, so there’s one for every occasion. Use younger balsamics to make a balsamic vinaigrette, and older balsamic vinegar on their own as balsamic dressings.
Concentrated grape must is a key ingredient in both traditional and modern balsamic vinegar. Premium quality balsamic vinegar often use cooked grapes and grape must, which contributes to their unique flavor profiles.
Aging Traditional Balsamic Vinegar
Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena DOP is made purely with aged grape must - no other vinegar or alcohol is added. To be classed as ‘traditional’, it must also be aged for at least 12 years. Traditional Balsamic Vinegars of Modena are therefore seriously rich and indulgent.
These are the creme-de-la-creme of balsamic vinegars! Enjoy half a teaspoon after a hearty Italian meal for a luxurious digestif. Drizzle traditional balsamic vinegar over grilled meats to enhance their flavor.
Then there are white balsamic vinegars - lighter and more delicate, white balsamic vinegar is ideal for fish & seafood. Thick and syrupy balsamic vinegar glazes, which are a reduced form of balsamic vinegar with added sweeteners and thickeners, give a big hit of flavour with just a drop, so are great for starters and canapes. And balsamic vinegar pearls add a burst of flavour to savoury and sweet dishes.
Imitation balsamic products often use various types of vinegar blended with sweeteners complex flavors and colors, so ingredient sourcing and quality are crucial. Some products labeled as balsamic vinegar are just vinegar mixed with sweeteners or coloring agents.
Balsamic Vinegars
Balsamic vinegar is also a versatile ingredient in salad dressings, marinades, and sauces. The emergence of a protected designation for true traditional balsamic vinegar, marked by the D.O.P. designation, ensures the integrity of production compared to more mass-produced varieties.
For those who appreciate the traditional methods of Italian condiments, Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale is a must-try. This true traditional balsamic vinegar from Reggio Emilia or Modena PGI is produced using only cooked grape must, aged for a minimum of 12 years in wooden barrels made from different types of wood like oak or chestnut. The complex flavours that develop over time result in a rich, viscous liquid that adds a depth of taste to any dish. Whether drizzled over grilled meats or used sparingly in salad dressings, this aged balsamic vinegar is perfect for enhancing the flavours of your favourite meals. The Aceto Balsamico di Modena is truly the pinnacle of traditional aged balsamic vinegar craftsmanship.
Balsamic glaze is a syrup, made by reducing balsamic vinegar, often with added sugar, and is versatile as a finishing sauce. Balsamic glaze is a reduced form of balsamic vinegar, often with added sweeteners and thickeners, and is commonly used as a finishing sauce or drizzle for various foods. Some balsamic-style vinegars may be made from cheaper alternatives like cider vinegar. It’s important to check ingredient lists to distinguish authentic balsamic vinegar from imitations.
Aging Process: The magic of traditional balsamic vinegar unfolds in wooden barrels. It is aged in a series of barrels made of different woods, each imparting unique flavors to the vinegar. The aging process can last from 12 years to over 25 years, where the balsamic vinegar moves from larger to small batches in the smallest cask, intensifying in flavor and complexity with each transfer.
Distinguishing Quality: True traditional balsamic vinegar bears the designation of either "Aceto Balsamico di Modena" or "Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale di Reggio Emilia," protected under European Union's PDO guidelines. These vinegars are characterized by a syrupy consistency, a complex flavor that balances sweetness and tartness, and a deep, rich color.
Culinary Uses: Beyond its use in salad dressings, where it pairs beautifully with olive oil, balsamic vinegar enhances the flavors of grilled meats, strawberries, and even vanilla ice cream. A few drops of this concentrated balsamic vinegar can transform a simple dish into something extraordinary.
Varieties and Imitations: While traditional balsamic vinegar are aged and rich in flavor, commercial balsamic vinegars, often labeled as Aceto Balsamico di Modena PGI, may include additional ingredients like caramel for color or guar gum for thickness. These versions are suitable for everyday cooking and are more affordable. For a lighter variant, white balsamic, which is fermented but not aged, offers a milder taste and doesn't discolor salads.
Selecting and Storing: When selecting a balsamic vinegar, consider its age—the older, the richer the flavor and the higher the price. For true balsamic vinegar connoisseurs, a bottle with a gold cap signifies the longest-aged vinegar, a rare find that promises an unparalleled gustatory experience. Store balsamic vinegar in a cool, dark place to preserve its nuanced flavors.
Incorporating balsamic vinegar into your kitchen repertoire allows you to explore its versatility and add a touch of Italian elegance to your meals, whether you’re drizzling it over roasted vegetables or whipping up a homemade balsamic glaze.
Our pick of Balsamic Vinegar:
Giuseppe Giusti make some of the finest balsamic vinegar we've tasted. Their aged balsamic vinegar ranges up to 25 years old. The balsamic vinegar is made in Modena, following the traditional balsamic vinegar of modena practice of using wood barrels.
The balsamic vinegar from Giusti transforms simple dishes with its exquisite flavour. Find notes of:
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Plums
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Dark Cherries
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Toasted caramel
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Toasted chocolate
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Dark almond
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Liquorice
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Toffee
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Hazelnuts
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Cocoa
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Sherry
This balsamic vinegar is the only ingredient you need to make extraordinary dishes.
Wine vinegar
Balsamic vinegar isn't the only vinegar at Sous Chef. Browse more wine vinegars, and extra virgin olive oil. And pair your balsamic vinegar collection with a range of store cupboard bottles you'll cherish. From red wine vinegar to chardonnay wine vinegar, or even champagne wine vinegar - there's a world of wine vinegar to discover. We particularly love Pommery red wine vinegar. This exquisite wine vinegar is made in France and matured in oak barrels for 2-6 months to develop the aromas. This wine vinegar is one to use with joy!
Feeling inspired? Browse our balsamic vinegar recipes, and ideas for using balsamic vinagar. Read our guide to finding the best balsamic vinegar in our ultimate balsamic buyers guide. Or Take a look at our ideas for using balsamic vinegar 'when it isn't a dressing'.
