Balsamic Vinegar of Modena and the new ‘Riserva’ category

A new development in the Balsamic Vinegar sector this year is definitely the introduction of the new ‘Riserva’ category of Balsamic Vinegar of Modena PGI dedicated to products aged for at least 5 years. This new designation identifies a selection of the highest quality, which will allow producers to differentiate their products even more on the market, always representing Italian excellence and the long tradition of this gem of the territory.

This innovation has been introduced in the production regulations for Balsamic Vinegar of Modena PGI, and came into force after the publication of the decree of 22 January 2025 in the Official Gazette. As already announced, this new category represents a historic step in the world of Balsamic Vinegar, because it introduces the concept of ‘qualitative verticalisation’ based on the ageing period of the product to the I.G.P. range. In fact, thanks to the possibility of tasting different vintages, experts and enthusiasts of this excellent product will have the opportunity to appreciate the nuances and organoleptic differences that can be appreciated thanks to the long ageing times.

An important introduction to the world of Balsamic Vinegar

Among other changes, a general revision of the specifications has been made, aimed at simplifying the reading of the rules, improving management and increasing product traceability. In addition, new principles related to labelling have been introduced, with the aim of enhancing the value of the name ‘Modena’. This emphasises more effectively the origin and tradition of this Italian excellence, also protecting consumers against the use of expressions that can be ambiguous and risk undermining the guarantee and transparency.

These changes are the result of in-depth work, carried out in collaboration with institutions and expert operators in the sector. The changes that have been made have been designed with the aim of strengthening the protection of the I.G.P. and improving the perception of one of the products that symbolise Italian gastronomic excellence, so that every drop respects the highest quality standards and continues to tell the story of a territory that is unique in the world. In fact, the changes to the specifications are a step forward in guaranteeing the quality and protecting the product itself, an icon of the region’s tradition. The final objective is, therefore, to protect consumers and strengthen the position of Balsamic Vinegar on international markets, a product that has a turnover of over one billion euros and an export share that exceeds 90%.

The importance of the origins of Balsamic Vinegar, at the root of its quality

As already mentioned, this is a major innovation in this field, as it gives the product added value and guarantees consumers the high quality for which this iconic product has always been known over the years. The greater prominence of the name Modena binds it even more closely to the territory from which it comes, giving importance to its origins. Its origins are ancient and can even be traced back to the ancient Romans. The latter were the first to cook grape must to preserve it and then use it as a drink to flavour and sweeten dishes.

Continuing with tradition, a mention of this iconic product was found in 1046, when vinegar was mentioned as being so good that it was given as a gift to Emperor Henry III, as told in the ‘Vita Mathildis’ of 1115 by the Benedictine monk Donizone. In the 1556 volume ‘La grassa’, the various types of vinegar and their different uses are listed and a variety is mentioned that seems to correspond to what we know today. However, a key moment came in 1747 when the adjective ‘Balsamico’ was used for the first time in the cellar records of the Dukes of Este. From that moment on, the popularity of this product continued to grow and in the 19th century Balsamic Vinegar of Modena began to be appreciated and recognised internationally: in fact, it became a protagonist of the most important exhibitions of the time.

A tradition handed down from generation to generation

Given the age-old tradition, the preparation of Balsamic vinegar follows precise steps that are handed down from generation to generation in the family vinegar cellars. The unmistakable flavour of this iconic product is therefore created thanks to a long process characterised by love and passion, two key ingredients that distinguish Modena’s Black Gold. The discovery of this preparation intrigues many people, both in our country and abroad: for this reason, we at Acetaia Marchi organise guided tours of the vinegar factory in several languages, including English, French, Polish and Spanish, to satisfy admirers from all over the world.

Our guided tour of the vinegar factory is the perfect solution if you’re wondering what to do in Modena in an afternoon: the visit, which starts with a relaxing stroll through our vineyard, continues inside the rooms where the real preparation of our artisan products takes place, which you can then taste thanks to an exclusive tasting. Guided by our expert vinegar makers, you can discover all the nuances of flavour that characterise our Balsamic Vinegar, and find the variant that best suits your palate.

The best Balsamic vinegar can be found in our Shop

After the visit to our vinegar factory, the tour ends in our Shop, the ideal place to buy some of our specialities to enjoy at home. Among the various products on offer, you’ll find Aceto Balsamico di Modena I.G.P., Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena D. O.P. and various gift boxes for special occasions. If you don’t happen to be in our area, don’t worry: our products are also available on our e-commerce site, so you can have a piece of our region delivered directly to your home.

Finally, if you are a fan of this extraordinary product and would like to celebrate it at your wedding, christening or communion, we also make the best food and wine favours in the whole of Emilia-Romagna, which are totally customisable and tailored to your needs. Here at Acetaia Marchi we know how to make the most of this extraordinary local treasure. If you’re curious to try the quality of our ingredients and taste our Balsamic Vinegar and its variants for yourself, all you have to do is come and visit us. We look forward to seeing you!