Balsamic Vinegar
Treasured of Hundreds of Years
Balsamic vinegar is one of those flavors that you can never forget once you've tasted it. The tasty liquid's name says a lot. The word itself can be translated to mean like balsam, which is an aromatic resin. Since the vinegar resembles thick resin, and also smells great, this is a perfect name.
Originally created centuries ago for use as a medicinal treatment, this balsam was to be used only by nobility such as emperors and kings. In fact, only favored drug stores could sell it. Balsamic vinegar was first documented in Italy in 1046, where it had been produced over the years in different cities, but chiefly in Modena, Italy.
Throughout the years balsamic vinegar managed to find its way into the world of cooking. Now cooks enjoy using it to add flavor and fragrant notes to anything and everything from salad to vegetables to meats. Balsamic vinegar is high in acid, but its sweet properties cover the tartness, giving it a very mellow flavor.
Balsamic vinegar is traditionally made by using different varieties of ripe grapes, including Occhio Di Gatto, Berzemino, Trebbiano, and Spergola. After the grapes have gone through the pressing process, the juice is boiled and yeasts are added to cause it to ferment. When this step is complete, it is all poured into barrels where it is aged for around 12 years or so. It is only after this amount of time that it can be referred to as traditional. If it ages for 25 years, it is called vecchio.
Prior to bottling, experts examine each batch of balsamic vinegar to ensure that it is shiny, dark brown, clear, has a consistency like syrup, and smells wonderful. Balsamic vinegar is often considered to be expensive and precious because only a mere 3,000 gallons of the authentic variety are released each year.
Basic balsamic vinegar and traditional balsamic vinegar vary in different ways, so you may want to ensure you are getting the finest vinegar when you buy it. You'll know you are getting something authentic by how much it costs. A higher cost often indicates better quality balsamic vinegar.