The Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena DOP is one of the most appreciated and imitated condiments from our region, which has held the Protected Designation of Origin since 2000. This product has enthusiasts in Italy and around the world, and it is a globally recognized and distinctive element of this territory.
In order to keep the tradition and preparation linked to these beautiful lands alive, we at Acetaia Marchi produce it exclusively with cooked must from grapes sourced from the provinces of Modena and Reggio Emilia. In fact, to obtain a product of the highest quality, we must reproduce specific climatic conditions in unique attics and follow a detailed procedure passed down from generation to generation.
We produce both types of Traditional Balsamic: the Affinato and the Extravecchio. These two products, highly loved both in Italy and abroad, are characterized by a preparation stemming from a very long tradition, and they differ particularly in terms of the aging process. Let’s delve into more detail in this article dedicated to the Black Gold of Modena and the characteristics of these two types!
The preparation of Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena DOP
Balsamic vinegar is a product derived from unfermented grape must obtained from the pressing or crushing of grape berries. In particular, the must used to prepare balsamic vinegar must come exclusively from specific grape varieties, including Lambrusco, Ancellotta, and Trebbiano.
Its preparation begins between September and October, after the grape harvest, when the must is cooked in open vessels over low heat, at a temperature between 85°C and 90°C. The duration of the cooking process varies depending on the type of balsamic vinegar that one wishes to obtain: for the Traditional, it ranges from 24 to 36 hours.
The types of Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena DOP
As mentioned, the two main categories of Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena DOP are distinguished based on their aging, which is one of the preparation phases of the Black Gold of Modena and a key moment that gives balsamic its characteristic flavor.
The aging of the product is determined by the time it spends inside the barrels. As the balsamic ages, it will be transferred to smaller barrels made of different woods. The collection of barrels is called a “batteria” and must consist of at least 4 pieces.
The refinement is, instead, the process through which the Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena DOP, as it ages, becomes increasingly concentrated and aromatic thanks to the action of acetic bacteria. It takes about two years for the fermentation and acetification process of the starting product to begin. An additional ten years of aging in the various barrels of the batteria is required to obtain a product that can be defined as “refined.”
A balsamic vinegar that has undergone maturation in barrel for at least 25 years is considered “extravecchio.” This type of product is drawn annually from the smallest barrel. Its production and bottling must follow the procedures established by the production regulations. The regulations require producers to bottle the Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena DOP in 100 ml bottles, sealed on the cap with a numbered mark.
The differences between Affinato and Extravecchio
In short, the main difference between the two products lies in the aging time, which is longer for the extravecchio. This difference translates into an additional distinction regarding flavor and consistency. In fact, the longer aging duration leads the Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena DOP extravecchio to have a denser consistency and a more aromatic and pronounced flavor.
In this case, the aromaticity is defined by a tasting commission composed of 5 expert tasters who must have been certified by the Chamber of Commerce of Modena. These professionals must assign a score for the visual appearance, aroma, and taste of the product. Only after approval by the entire commission will it be possible to bottle and sell the vinegar under the designation of Traditional Balsamic.
A refined vinegar must reach a minimum score of 229 points, while an extravecchio must not have a sensory score lower than 255 points.
Do you want to taste an excellent Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena DOP?
If you answered yes, do not hesitate to try our products. We at Acetaia Marchi offer our customers a very wide catalog, which certainly includes both the Affinato and the Extravecchio, both extremely pure and precious, characterized by an intense, rich, and shiny black color and a pleasant and harmonious acidity.
Moreover, we can offer various customized solutions, and each time you will have a Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena DOP of quality and unique in its kind. If you want to celebrate a special moment in your life, we at Acetaia Marchi also prepare gift packages and gourmet favors, to ensure a touch of flavor on any occasion and make every moment an unforgettable culinary experience.
What to visit in Modena? Acetaia Marchi!
If you are looking for something to do in Modena, then you must absolutely visit our Shop: here you will be welcomed by our expert vinegar masters, professionals in the field who will be able to recommend the products best suited to your tastes and palate. Thanks to the care and passion that drives us at Acetaia Marchi, we can always guarantee you products of the highest quality, which you can experience firsthand through the guided tours in the vinegar factory that we offer.
After a relaxing walk through our vineyards accompanied by our well-prepared guides, you can then proceed to the vinegar factory and participate in an exclusive tasting, an unforgettable moment for your taste buds. The guided tours – available in different languages to allow enthusiasts from all over the world to appreciate this product in all its nuances – will allow you to experience a unique experience and immerse yourself in the history and long tradition of this extraordinary condiment to fully understand all the secrets of its traditional preparation. If, on the other hand, you are not from the area, do not worry: thanks to our e-commerce, you can taste this authentic gem of the territory directly at home and experiment with different recipes. What are you waiting for? Come visit us!
