The deep bond between Balsamic Vinegar of Modena PGI and the territory of Modena and Reggio Emilia
According to tradition and in full compliance with current regulations, the production area par excellence of Aceto Balsamico di Modena I.G.P. is in the provinces of Modena and Reggio Emilia. In these areas, there is a high concentration of grapes with the right level of sugar and acidity, ideal for preparing a product of the highest quality and excellence.
It’s no coincidence that Balsamic Vinegar of Modena PGI is closely linked to its place of origin, which offers all the best conditions for the cultivation of raw ingredients with a perfect composition. If you’re curious to discover all the elements that link this product to this particular geographical area, then read on!
History and territory, two key elements
Modena and Reggio Emilia are located in the plains of Emilia-Romagna and, along this scenic route, the river Po follows and crosses the Secchia and Panaro basins. This is also the area corresponding to the ancient Duchy of Este: a land rich in history and with a great culinary tradition. It is precisely the ancient knowledge of the farmers and their innate love for the good life and good food, together with the pedoclimatic characteristics of the territory, that have allowed the creation of a typical and exclusive product such as Balsamic Vinegar of Modena PGI.
As mentioned previously, the climatic conditions are optimal. The climate that characterises Modena and Reggio Emilia is semi-continental, mitigated by the influence of the nearby Adriatic Sea. Winters are typically harsh, with average temperatures hovering around 2°C, while summers are hot and humid, even exceeding 35°C; on the other hand, springs and autumns are decidedly mild. These conditions favour the development of the native acetic flora, which has a predominant influence on the maturation and ageing process of Balsamic Vinegar of Modena. The areas of Modena and Reggio Emilia are also characterised by a fair amount of rainfall (about 750 mm per year) and fog, especially in late autumn and winter.
The characteristics of Balsamic Vinegar of Modena PGI.
When we talk about Balsamic Vinegar of Modena PGI we are referring to a product that is unique in the world. Its existence is closely linked to the unique knowledge, traditions and skills of the local population: for this reason, Balsamic Vinegar of Modena PGI is considered, due to its uniqueness, a symbol of Modena’s culture and history, as ratified by the Official Journal of the European Union (L 175/10 of 4.7.2009).
An emblem of gastronomic quality in the territory of the two Emilian cities, Aceto Balsamico di Modena I.G.P</a. is an integral part of the local culinary tradition. As well as being versatile and an intriguing ingredient in countless regional recipes, it is also the undisputed star of festivals and events dedicated to it, as well as being used throughout the country. As already mentioned, Modena’s ‘black gold’ has several special characteristics, both in terms of appearance and taste: in terms of colour, it should be an intense brown, but clear and bright. It should have a delicate, persistent aroma with woody notes and a pleasant acidity. In terms of flavour, it should be sweet and balanced, with a minimum density of 1.06 g/l. In short, many elements come together to create a product that is unique in its kind.
The tradition of Modena’s Black Gold
Natural, artisan preparation takes a lot longer than industrial procedures, but it allows us to bring the typical products of our land to the table, in the most excellent way from every point of view. Balsamic Vinegar of Modena PGI and Organic Balsamic Vinegar of Modena PGI Organic are free from thickeners, colourings, preservatives, antioxidants, sweeteners and added sulphites. Both are the result of a skilful blend of the best musts (extracted from native Modenese grapes grown in the family vineyards and rigorously selected), and wine vinegar.
This mixture is then subjected to a refining and/or ageing process in old oak barrels. This period requires a lot of time and patience, as the minimum time limit is about 60 days. When the ageing period exceeds three years, the word ‘aged’ can also be added to the finished product. Balsamic Vinegar of Modena PGI and Organic Balsamic Vinegar of Modena PGI are a tasty food and wine product with a dark brown colour, characterised by excellent density and quality.
Guided tours of the vinegar cellars
to discover the secrets of PGI Balsamic Vinegar.
This preparation process, closely linked to the vinegar cellars where it is made, is the result of a long tradition handed down from generation to generation: to fully appreciate this product, a symbol of Italian excellence, a guided tour of a vinegar cellar is recommended. We at Acetaia Marchi are one of the best vinegar producers in the area and, if you are passing through and wondering what to do in Modena, the answer is a guided tour to see first-hand the places where Modena’s Black Gold is produced.
Our guided tours, available in different languages for Balsamic lovers from all over the world, start with a relaxing walk through the vineyards, to see the care taken in the cultivation of this variety and understand where it all actually begins. Afterwards, we move inside the facility to discover the entire production process. The pressing of the grapes, the cooking of the must and the ageing in barrels made of fine woods are just some of the steps that will be explained to you, to fully understand how Balsamic Vinegar of Modena PGI is prepared.
Tasting Balsamic Vinegar of Modena PGI and the Acetaia Marchi Shop
Our tour then continues with a tasting of our products, a special moment that allows everyone to personally savour the goodness of the ingredients used. But that’s not all: if you want to take a piece of our fabulous territory home with you, you must also stop at our Shop, a place where our passionate vinegar makers will be able to recommend the best products, suitable for even the most refined palates.
If you’d like to buy our products from home, no problem: our e-commerce site is waiting for you, full of flavoursome and tasty products. From gift boxes to balsamic condiments, here you’ll find everything you’re looking for. Furthermore, at Acetaia Marchi we also make the best food and wine favours in the whole of Emilia-Romagna, an excellent way to give a tasty souvenir to those attending weddings, baptisms and first communions. So, what are you waiting for? Acetaia Marchi is ready to tell you all about this extraordinary product!
