Balsamic Vinegar of Modena P.G.I

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!

by Redazione Acetaia Marchi

Balsamic vinegar and mixology, an innovative and modern combination

It is now well known that Balsamic Vinegar is a perfect ingredient for any dish or preparation. However, only recently has it also become the star ingredient in certain drinks and cocktails, an event that has given this extraordinary product the right to fully enter the world of mixology.

In fact, its unmistakeable and unique flavour lends itself perfectly to this type of use, which allows a timeless product to enjoy a breath of fresh air and modernity. If you want to know more about this new use of Modena's Black Gold, then continue reading this dedicated article!

The art of mixology and the ‘barman mixologist’

Before going any further, it's useful to define the concept of ‘mixology’, a term that has been increasingly used in recent years but that not everyone knows exactly what it means. This technique was born in the early decades of the 19th century, when the bartender Jerry Thomas began mixing different types of liqueurs in New York with the aim of creating original concoctions that would later become famous cocktails that spread rapidly throughout the world.

In recent years, this art has spread internationally, leading bartenders to increasingly refine their mixing techniques, skills and knowledge with the aim of creating ever more original drinks, prepared with increasingly diverse and special ingredients. This led to the creation of the ‘barman mixologist’, a professional dedicated to creating ‘home-made’ products such as syrups and old cocktail recipes, modernised with a good dose of creativity. And it is precisely in this scenario that we find Balsamic Vinegar, a product that symbolises the Made in Italy brand and that, thanks to its characteristic flavour, has become the protagonist of some original cocktails.

A new look for Balsamic Vinegar

The use of Balsamic Vinegar in cocktails is certainly a novelty that allows this iconic product to change its look once again, entering a totally new context. Already experimented with in recipes for desserts such as panettone, chocolate pralines and even ice cream, its ‘scope’ is now expanding to include drinks, confirming its status as a distinctive ingredient in the world of mixology.

This new use of balsamic vinegar is well known to professionals, but less so to the general public, and is part of a project to promote this product with an ancient gastronomic tradition. In fact, the aim is to try to stimulate the consumer through original proposals, encouraging a wider consumption of balsamic vinegar.

A product that symbolises the territory

The importance of Balsamic Vinegar in Italian culture and tradition is certainly undeniable and its innovative use in cocktails and drinks is a way of bringing this product closer to a sphere that is usually considered very distant. This use is appreciated in Italy and elsewhere: in fact, Modena's ‘Black Gold’ is also very successful abroad, where it has many admirers from numerous countries who have fallen in love with its inimitable flavour.

The Acetaie, the places par excellence where it is prepared, thus become precious centres of knowledge, where the ancient tradition that allows the creation of this important product is handed down. Given the fame of Balsamic Vinegar, if you are a fan of this product and are wondering what to see in Modena, the answer is very simple: a guided tour of the Acetaia Marchi, one of the best in Emilia-Romagna. This is the ideal opportunity to discover how this product is prepared, a key ingredient in numerous dishes and, by now, drinks.

A sensory journey: from a walk in the vineyards to a tasting

Our expert vinegar makers will tell you all about the production of Modena's ‘black gold’, passionately describing each essential step in the production of balsamic vinegar. Guided tours of the vinegar cellar begin with a walk through our vineyard, where the specific varieties of vines necessary to create a product of absolute excellence are cultivated.

Afterwards, inside the vinegar cellar, we'll visit the rooms where the ageing takes place, a period in which the product is left to rest in barrels made of different woods, essential for giving Balsamic Vinegar its distinctive flavour. The final tasting will allow you to continue your journey through taste, taking you to unexplored territories thanks to the intense and aromatic flavour of Balsamic.

A trip to the Shop for a delicious souvenir

Before you leave, however, we recommend you take a look around our Shop, where you'll find all the products we prepare with great care and passion. Here, with the advice of our attentive vinegar masters, you'll be shown all the varieties of Balsamic Vinegar available, from organic to balsamic condiments, so you can find the one that best suits your palate. Our products can also be found at our e-commerce site, where you can purchase the product you want and have it delivered directly to your home, so you can have a little piece of Emilia-Romagna with you.

If you want to celebrate an important occasion, we also prepare elegant gift boxes, ideal for a gift for enthusiasts and others. Precisely with the aim of celebrating the many uses of Balsamic Vinegar, Acetaia Marchi has decided to add to the wide range of products and services it offers the preparation of the best food and wine favours from Emilia-Romagna, which feature Balsamic Vinegar and can be personalised according to your tastes and desires. This way, guests at weddings, baptisms and communions are given the opportunity to have a tasty and original souvenir of the event!

Discover the secrets of a timeless product with Acetaia Marchi

In short, ever since it was first produced, Balsamic Vinegar has been a great success with consumers. This is because it is a symbol of Italian excellence, quality and authenticity, all elements that, over time, have given this extraordinary product ever-increasing importance.

Whether it is used as the main ingredient in a drink, or in a recipe or dessert, you can be sure that Modena's Black Gold will not disappoint you, but rather will captivate you with its unique and distinctive flavour, making you want more and more. What are you waiting for? Acetaia Marchi is happy to tell you the story and the secrets of how this unique product is made!

by Redazione Acetaia Marchi

Balsamic Vinegar symbol of Made in Italy: a national pride

Balsamic Vinegar of Modena is more than just a condiment: it is a true symbol of Italian gastronomic culture around the world. Loved and appreciated even abroad, over time this unique product has come to embody the values of Made in Italy, representing a perfect blend of tradition, craftsmanship and innovation.

The history of Oro Nero di Modena (Black Gold of Modena) is very old and is intertwined with that of its land of origin, Emilia-Romagna, which has made Balsamic Vinegar a sign of quality and a distinctive element of its culinary excellence. Let's discover in this article why this extraordinary condiment is anything but ordinary!

The history of an icon linked to the territory

What makes Balsamic Vinegar a national pride is, as mentioned above, its close link with the territory where it is produced, i.e. Emilia-Romagna, and the people who make it. In fact, every drop contains the passion and knowledge handed down from generation to generation by master vinegar makers, who have transformed the ancient family practice into an internationally recognised and protected art.

The history of the Black Gold of Modena dates back to the times of the ancient Romans, who knew the art of processing must to turn it into an excellent sweet and sour condiment. However, it was during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance that the art of Balsamic vinegar-making found its greatest expression in Emilia-Romagna. In particular, in Modena and Reggio Emilia, noble and farming families began to increasingly perfect the production techniques handed down from father to son. Over time, this knowledge has given rise to a unique product, whose secret lies not only in the top-quality ingredients, but also in the care and passion that go into the production process.

Balsamic vinegar as a symbol of Italian creativity

The prestige of this condiment lies not only in its inimitable taste, but also in its very nature, an indisputable symbol of Italian sustainability and creativity. In fact, the production process perfectly combines respect for the environment, attention to detail and the ability to innovate without ever losing sight of tradition. The production of Balsamic Vinegar is a meticulous process, starting with the cooked must, made from the best and selected grapes, followed by slow fermentation and ageing in precious wooden barrels. The latter can be made of different types of wood, such as oak, cherry, chestnut or juniper and mulberry, which contribute to a unique and aromatic mix of flavours.

Italian creativity has also led to the creation of different variants of this product: one example is the Balsamic Vinegar of Modena I.G.P. Biological, which sees a special focus on quality and a deep respect for the environment, with production processes aimed at reducing environmental impact, which enhance sustainable practices. All this makes Balsamic Vinegar a culinary excellence but also a product that is able to innovate and adapt, always remaining in tune with the needs of modern consumers.

All the flavour of Italy in a drop of Balsamic Vinegar

Whoever tastes Balsamic Vinegar discovers not only a product, but a real piece of Italy, a land that is expressed through the flavour of this condiment. Its spread across the world's best tables and restaurants is a testimony to its success and the global impact this product has achieved.

The fame it has gained is proof of the fact that Balsamic Vinegar, while keeping its typically Italian essence intact, has managed to adapt to different culinary cultures around the world. Precisely for this reason, Oro Nero di Modena cannot be considered ‘just’ a condiment, but a true ambassador of Made in Italy, a national pride capable of conquering the palates of numerous countries.

An exceptional cultural and gastronomic heritage

Balsamic Vinegar is more than just a gastronomic product, it is a true cultural heritage that tells a story rich in tradition, innovation and passion. Vinegar cellars are often run by families who, from generation to generation, hand down the secrets of its preparation, constituting an ancient knowledge that absolutely must be preserved and enhanced.

There are numerous initiatives to celebrate Modena's Oro Nero (Black Gold): events, fairs, tastings and visits to vinegar cellars are perfect occasions to promote this product, letting Italian and foreign visitors discover the fascination of the art of preparing this gem that is closely linked to its territory of origin.

A guided tour of Acetaia Marchito discover the production of Balsamico

To discover the slow process of making Balsamic vinegar and see first-hand all the tradition that goes into this preparation, we recommend visiting Acetaia Marchi with our guided tours. This is definitely a must-do in Modena, as it will give you a unique and unforgettable experience within the culture and tradition of this territory. Our tours, available in many languages for enthusiasts from all over the world, start with a relaxing walk through the vineyard, and then continue inside the vinegar cellar to discover all the steps of the production process.

The crushing of our grapes, the cooking of the must and the ageing in barrels made from precious woods are just some of the moments in the complex preparation of Balsamic Vinegar, which will be explained to you in its entirety by our trained master vinegar makers. The final tasting will allow you to experience on your palate the exceptional nature of the ingredients we use, which are fundamental in giving our product a unique and inimitable flavour.

Buy Balsamic at our Bottega

If you are eager to take home some of our products, let our master vinegar makers advise you on which Balsamic is best suited to your needs at our our Bottega. Here you will be guided by our experts through the wide selection of available offerings, and all the characteristics of each product will be explained to you. Our seasonings are also available on our e-commerce, should it not be possible for you to physically visit us in Modena.

Among the various available proposals we offer, there are also elegantgift packs of Balsamic Vinegar of Modena I.G.P., which prove to be ideal for a tasty gift for someone special. Finally, if you want to celebrate a baptism, wedding or communion, we make the best wine and food favours in Emilia-Romagna, totally customised to your tastes and wishes. If you are a fan of Balsamic Vinegar, this is just the place for you: Acetaia Marchi is waiting for you!

by Redazione Acetaia Marchi

From nobility to the modern world, Balsamic Vinegar and popular culture

Balsamic Vinegar is not just a condiment, it is much more: it represents <strong>the symbol of a culture</strong> and a tradition of our land, which has spanned the centuries to the present day. Indeed, today it remains one of the most celebrated and best known products in the world for its unmistakable flavour and rich history.

Its preparation, handed down from generation to generation, represents a true Italian cultural heritage, which gives Balsamic Vinegar its iconic and distinctive characteristics. Discover in this dedicated article its noble origins and its evolution until it arrives on our table today.

The noble origins of Balsamic Vinegar

The earliest evidence of this extraordinary product dates back to the Middle Ages, particularly in the provinces of Modena and Reggio Emilia, which offered perfect climate and environmental conditions for the production of a Balsamic Vinegar of the highest quality. However, given the great sophistication of its preparation, it was by no means a product suitable for everyone, but was considered a true ‘nectar’ reserved only for noble families. The Dukes of Este, in fact, used it as a precious gift for their guests, as a symbol of social status and prestige.

It is no coincidence that the first vinegar cellars were located inside noble palaces, in very private and constantly controlled environments. Ageing took place inside precious wooden barrels and only members of the most illustrious families could afford to keep this precious Black Gold for decades, when it finally reached perfect maturity. Moreover, the term ‘balsamic’ derives from the curative properties the product boasted, which is why it was also often used as a medicinal remedy.

Balsamic in modern times, a pillar of our tradition

The passing of the centuries has not deprived Balsamic of its status as a luxury product; however, from the 18th century onwards, it began to spread among the bourgeoisie. In addition, production techniques began to be transmitted from father to son like precious secrets, leading each vinegar cellar to develop its own distinctive style and preparation. It was not until the 19th century that balsamic vinegar began to be produced on a much larger scale and marketed not only in Italy but also abroad.

Today, this sought-after product is considered one of the mainstays of Italian cuisine and has been able to gain international fame as a synonym for quality and tradition. It is appreciated for many reasons: for its rich flavour, but also for its role in premium gastronomy.

The Role of Balsamic Vinegar in Popular Culture

In Italy, this product remains an integral part of culinary culture. Families in the Modena area often still make Balsamic Vinegar at home, handing down the barrels from generation to generation and keeping the tradition alive. Moreover, it remains the main theme of various social initiatives, such as festivals and local fairs, where producers display their most precious vintages of Balsamic.

Its presence in popular culture, however, does not stop there: in fact, Balsamic Vinegar has featured in numerous editorial publications and television programmes, where it is often associated with the elegance and prestige of Italian cuisine. In the vinegar cellars, it is still seen as a special product whose production steps require a great deal of patience, time and respect for the ingredients used.

The Balsamic tradition into the future

Despite being a product whose roots are deeply embedded in tradition, Balsamic Vinegar continues to evolve and look towards the future and new trends. Today, many chefs are experimenting in their restaurants with different combinations and ways of using it, coming up with new solutions to surprise the public. There are several examples that can be cited: Balsamic Vinegar used to marinate meat, or within gourmet cocktails and for aromatic solutions.

But that's not all: it is also used in gift packs as a gift for food lovers or even as food and wine favours to celebrate weddings, baptisms or communions, so that it can also be a protagonist in the special moments in the lives of its fans. At Acetaia Marchi we make the best wedding favours in Emilia-Romagna, completely customised and created according to your needs. Turn to our master vinegar makers for advice: you will not be disappointed!

Balsamic Vinegar's journey between tradition and innovation

Balsamic Vinegar thus proves to be a perfect synthesis between history and modernity, tradition and innovation. From the banquets of medieval nobles to the tables of gourmet restaurants, this product continues to embody the essence of typical Italian craftsmanship and quality, keeping the culture and tradition of Emilia-Romagna alive and bringing with it a tale of passion and dedication.

The choice of the best ingredients and the use of traditional techniques give Oro Nero di Modena all the characteristics that distinguish it from imitations, all guided by the care of master vinegar makers who follow every step of the production process.

Trust Acetaia Marchito experience the taste of tradition

Thanks to the guided visits to the Acetaia that we organise, it is possible to witness at first hand the long production process that Balsamic vinegar requires, so that you can see how much care goes into each step to create this extraordinary product. The tours, which are available in different languages for artisanal Balsamic Vinegar enthusiasts from all over the world, begin with a relaxing walk through our vineyards, then move on to a visit of the places where it is prepared and end with an exclusive tasting session, which will give your taste buds an unforgettable experience. Thanks to this guided tour of one of Modena's best vinegar cellars, you will be able to fully appreciate the work of the master vinegar makers.

In addition, you can buy our products at our Bottega, guided by the advice of our expert master vinegar makers. Here you can taste all the products we prepare, so that you can choose the one that best suits your palate. If it is not possible for you to visit us in person, you can still have a look at our e-commerce where you can find all the products we make, so that you can have a piece of our fabulous territory directly at home. What are you waiting for? Try the quality of our Balsamic too: you won't regret it!

by Redazione Acetaia Marchi

Safeguarding Balsamic Vinegar: how best to protect it

Balsamic vinegar is one of Italy's best-loved products both nationally and internationally: in fact, it has numerous admirers from every corner of the world. It is precisely because of this great admiration for this symbolic product of our territory that one can often come across unrepresentative imitations of the high quality of the Black Gold of Modena. These emulations undermine the very high reputation and quality that characterise the original product, representative of a very ancient territorial tradition.

Therefore, in order to safeguard the quality and authenticity of Balsamic as much as possible, a number of guidelines have been established that determine its originality: let's discover in this article all the actions put in place to preserve this fantastic traditional product!

Balsamic Vinegar Denominations

One of the main tools for ensuring the protection of Balsamic Vinegar is the use of denominations of origin. Thanks to these certifications, in fact, it is possible to certify the quality and authenticity of the purchased product, the originality of which is recognised in its traditional production. In general, one speaks of Protected Designation of Origin (P.D.O.) when one identifies a product as originating from a certain place, region or, in exceptional cases, a certain country. In this case, the quality or characteristics are essentially or exclusively due to a particular geographical environment and its intrinsic natural and human factors, with the production stages taking place in the defined geographical area.

On the other hand, we speak of Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) when we identify a product that also originates from a particular place, region or country, to whose geographical origin a given quality, reputation or other characteristics are essentially attributable. In this case, production takes place for at least one of its stages in the defined geographical area.

In the case of Balsamic, we are talking about:

• • Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena D.O.P.: this Balsamic is a product made from the must of grapes typical of the province of Modena. The D.O.P. denomination ensures that every stage of production takes place in the specified area, which in this case includes the entire territory of the province of Modena, using traditional methods handed down from generation to generation.

• • Balsamic Vinegar of Modena I.G.P.: in this case, the product is made from grape must and wine vinegar aged in fine wooden containers for a variable period of time. The production area falls within the provinces of Modena and Reggio Emilia.

The fight against counterfeit Balsamic vinegar

Due to the popularity of Balsamic vinegar, there are many who want to emulate it. This has led to numerous problems linked to counterfeiting, with products being sold as ‘balsamic’ that however do not at all meet the quality standards that characterise the excellence of our territory.

These seasonings, which attempt to imitate the original, are misleadingly labelled as ‘balsamic’ and falsely suggest a superior quality or provenance from Modena without complying with P.D.O. or P.G.I. regulations. In addition, they are often made without following the traditional process and with the addition of ingredients such as colouring agents or additives to imitate the authentic colour and flavour. Finally, many counterfeit products do not undergo the long ageing process that is distinctive to balsamic vinegar, significantly reducing its quality.

It is therefore necessary to educate the consumer, informing all those who buy this product of the differences between authentic Balsamic Vinegar and imitations, in order to preserve its reputation as much as possible.

Balsamic Vinegar, an excellence to be preserved

These issues have led to the increasing protection of balsamic vinegar, which is recognised as a gastronomic heritage of inestimable value. To better promote awareness of this extraordinary Italian excellence, events and tastings are often organised, with master vinegar makers allowing visitors to discover the long production process of the product with the aim of educating the public on the distinctive qualities of Traditional Balsamic Vinegar. Awareness-raising campaigns are also necessary to distinguish authentic products from counterfeit ones.

The protection of balsamic vinegar is therefore crucial to maintaining its quality and reputation worldwide: through strict regulations and consumer education, producers can continue to offer an authentic product of the highest quality, while ensuring that traditions are preserved for future generations.

Preservation of tradition

For all these reasons, when buying such a product, it is always necessary to be wary of imitations and to rely on professionals in the sector who know how to respect the regulations and tradition associated with the preparation of balsamic vinegar.

Thanks to the guided visits to the vinegar cellar that we offer, you will be able to see with your own eyes the complexity and care with which this product is prepared by our master vinegar makers. Only in this way will you fully understand the importance of consciously choosing an original product over an imitation.

Tour of the vinegar cellar with tasting for a unique experience

With our guided tours - available in several languages - you can see the vineyards used for balsamic vinegar and listen to the centuries-old history behind this extraordinary product. Finally, thanks to a tasting session, you can experience on your palate the goodness of the ingredients, the unmistakable flavour and the distinctive aroma of the Black Gold of Modena.

Moreover, you will be able to purchase in Modena at our Bottega the product that best suits your needs: Balsamic Vinegar of Modena P.G.I., Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena P.D.O. or our own balsamic condiments. Guided by the advice and passion of master vinegar makers, you will have a unique experience.

Always choose quality: trust in Acetaia Marchi!

As already mentioned, Balsamic Vinegar represents a true Italian cultural and traditional heritage and should therefore be protected as much as possible. Precisely because of its versatility, it lends itself very well to different combinations and new solutions: for example, at Acetaia Marchi we also create food and wine favours from Emilia-Romagna to celebrate all the special events in everyone's life.

But that's not all: our gift boxes are ideal for making a present to a balsamic enthusiast. In short, whatever it looks like, this iconic product remains a testimony to the tradition of this territory and a gem of inestimable value. What are you waiting for? Come and visit us and try it now!

by Redazione Acetaia Marchi

Balsamic vinegar with fruit: the best combinations

In Italian kitchens, there are many foods and ingredients that absolutely cannot be missing. Among these is certainly balsamic vinegar. As you are well aware, it is a very popular condiment both nationally and internationally. Italians are the ones who love it and have always known how to combine it with other foods to create dishes with a unique and inimitable flavour.

Balsamic vinegar is an excellent ally for enhancing the taste of various types of meat and fish: it is perfect on roast meat, but also on sea bream and baked sea bass! In addition, it is a fabulous ingredient for various vegetable dishes and is one of the best salad dressings. But that's not all: balsamic vinegar can also be combined with fruit and always produces surprising results... not to mention exceptional! In the following, we will look at the best combinations of balsamic vinegar with fruit for a mouth-watering snack or an incomparable-tasting dessert.

Some recipes using balsamic vinegar and fruit

Those who love balsamic vinegar should know that this condiment can give a better and more intense flavour to different types of fruit. In fact, it goes very well with sweet flavours: it is ideal, for example, with kiwi and melon. With these ingredients, you can create hors d'oeuvres or desserts that will leave your family and friends speechless.

To create a unique dish, you only need simple ingredients: in addition to kiwi and melon, you will need some salad and, of course, balsamic vinegar. Cut the fruit into pieces, add it to the salad and dress with the balsamic vinegar. From the first taste, you will discover that this combination is truly unforgettable! If you are curious, another interesting recipe is baked melon with balsamic vinegar: a quick preparation that takes summer flavours and mixes them with the characteristic taste of balsamic vinegar.

Fruits of the forest and more

Another well-known combination is certainly that of berries and balsamic vinegar. You can simply pour a few drops of dressing over the fruit and enjoy the result. Alternatively, you can turn this special combination into a delicious garnish for cakes, ice cream and sorbets. Ideal for a healthy but tasty snack!

Even with oranges and apples you can play with balsamic vinegar: in fact, by naturally accompanying these two fruits with a drizzle of balsamic vinegar, you can create a tasty fennel salad. This will allow you to create a side dish rich in vitamins and fibre, which can be eaten all year round for a tasty and light meal.

Other combinations: all the flavour of balsamic vinegar with fruit!

Another special combination is certainly that of pears and mixed nuts which, combined with various vegetables and a spoonful of balsamic vinegar, can help you bring a simple yet unique dish to the table. This is the perfect mix that creates a winter side dish appreciated by vegetarians and others.

It is also possible to create a dessert that is quick in preparation and tasty in flavour by using pears, combining this tasty fruit with honey and balsamic vinegar and garnishing it with pistachios to make a mouth-watering recipe suitable for dinner parties.

If, on the other hand, the intention is to have a simple dessert that does not require too much time-consuming preparation, simply get some strawberries, peaches or figs and combine the pieces of fruit with a few drops of balsamic vinegar. In this way, you will prepare a delicious fruit salad accompanied by the unmistakable taste of this dressing. After just a few minutes, you're done!

Finally, combining only strawberries with a few drops of balsamic vinegar is a move that always turns out to be a winner: if you are feeling more creative, you can also add a few mint leaves to the recipe to give your preparation an even cooler touch, ideal for fighting the summer heat.

A quality touch to every dish

As you can see, there is no shortage of combinations to enjoy, and you can always play with the flavours. The choice, in fact, is very wide and it all depends on your fruit preferences. The important thing is to always choose a quality balsamic vinegar that can enhance the flavour of the chosen fruit and create an unmistakable mix that is a joy to your palate. This will allow you to play it safe and offer your guests unique and unforgettable organoleptic experiences.

To ensure a preparation with the best results, it is always best to rely on quality products, made from the best ingredients and by the hands of experienced vinegar makers. The balsamic vinegar and condiments from Acetaia Marchi are among the best in Modena, and are characterised by a very high quality and care in preparation that fully respects the long tradition that characterises this part of Italy.

If you are curious to see first-hand how these extraordinary products are prepared, you can take part in a guided tour of a vinegar cellar in Modena: thanks to our expert master vinegar makers, you can discover all the secrets of how balsamic vinegar is made and also take part in an exclusive tasting session. The tours, which are available in different languages for connoisseurs from all over the world, will allow you to immerse yourself in the history and tradition of this priceless gem, and take home an unforgettable experience.

What are you waiting for? Acetaia Marchiis waiting for you!

If you are passing by and you would like to try our Balsamic Vinegar of Modena P.G.I., the Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena P.D.O. or the Balsamic Dressings that we prepare with great passion, then you must come and visit us and drop by our Bottega: here our master vinegar makers will advise you on the products best suited to your palate, and you can enjoy a unique culinary experience. But that's not all: at Acetaia Marchi we also prepare gift packages and food and wine favours to celebrate special occasions, always with a touch of taste.

If you are not from the area, don't worry: alternatively, you can take a look at the selection of products on our e-commerce, so that you can try the tasty recipes prepared with balsamic directly at home!

by Redazione Acetaia Marchi

Seasonal flavors: winter vegetables and Balsamic Vinegar of Modena IGP

Winter is a season full of robust and nutritious flavors, and seasonal vegetables play a crucial role in creating delicious and healthy dishes. Among the gems of the earth that thrive during this time are some winter vegetables that bring with them a wealth of flavor and essential nutrition.An ideal companion to enhance these flavors is Aceto Balsamico di Modena IGP with its aromatic complexity and distinctive character.
But what are the most excellent and must-try pairings as soon as possible?

Discovering winter vegetables

With its dark, almost leathery leaf, the black cabbage is a winter treat that reaches its sweetest after the first frost. It can be steamed and then seasoned with balsamic vinegar to add a tart note and balance its robustness. Similar to potatoes, topinambur is also a treat not to be missed. It is rich in flavor and can be baked in the oven. Balsamic Vinegar of Modena IGP, with its sweetness and acidity, adds depth to the flavor of this tuber, making it possible to create a delicious winter dish.

The purple cauliflower is another of the vegetables enjoyed in winter and is certainly one of the most popular. It boasts an eye-catching color and is a food rich in antioxidants. It can be marinated with balsamic and then baked in the oven.... It will turn into a definitely tasty side dish! The same is true for fennel, which is fresh and crisp, making it a versatile food even in winter.
Cut into thin slices and dressed with a balsamic-based vinaigrette, it will look like a light and refreshing salad.

Other food pairings with Balsamic Vinegar of Modena IGP

Below you will find some dishes to try during the colder months of the year and beyond.

• Balsamic Beet Salad - Winter beets, baked and sliced, go perfectly with balsamic vinegar. Adding toasted walnuts and goat cheese will bring a winter salad to the table that is nothing short of refined.
• Baked Pumpkin with Balsamic Vinegar of Modena IGP Reduction - Slices of pumpkin, roasted in the oven, can be flavored with a balsamic reduction. This dish boasts an irresistible sweet-and-sour flavor.
• Cabbage sautéed with balsamic - To prepare this dish one must sauté cabbage with garlic and olive oil. At the end of cooking, a few drops of balsamic are added, which will be able to make the cabbage even tastier.
• Mash of Jerusalem artichokes with balsamic drops - Jerusalem artichoke puree becomes even more extraordinary with the addition of a few drops of balsamic that accentuate the creaminess and add a touch of acidity to the dish.

All the goodness of Balsamic Vinegar of Modena IGP on the table with winter vegetables

In this brief journey through the pairings of winter vegetables and balsamic vinegar, we have certainly given you some insights that will lead you to prepare amazing dishes. The Balsamic Vinegar of Modena IGP, with its versatility, proves to be a valuable ally in elevating winter flavors to new heights of gastronomic delight. You can find quality balsamic directly at our Bottega just minutes from the historic center of Modena. We are waiting for you!

by Redazione Acetaia Marchi