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We've rounded up the most delicious options so you don't have to.
balsamic vinegarIt is manufactured byIt involves reducing unfermented grape juice, officially called “grape must”, and then boiling and aging it in wooden barrels to create a delicate flavor that skillfully balances sweet and sour. Traditionally, balsamic vinegar comes from Italy and usually vinegars from the Modena or Reggio Emilia regions are considered as suchof the highest quality.
However, some of these vinegars can be expensive. We're talking $150-$300 a bottle, with some rare strains going for up to $1,000. However, we know that most people don't have that much money for a bottle of balsamic vinegar.
When looking at flavor, aroma and viscosity, we've narrowed it down to the best balsamic vinegars that taste great without the shocking price.
Best Overall: 25 Year Barrel Aged Balsamic Vinegar VSOP
Made in Italy and aged in oak barrels, this vinegar is the perfect combination of richness and acidity.
What we like
25 years
Balanced flavor profile
Thick and suitable for dipping
What we don't like
Does the important distinction between PGIs seem and PDO not to have
Exclusive to Williams-Sonoma, VSOP's 25 Year Barrel Aged Balsamic Vinegar met all of the required criteria, earning top place overallbalsamic vinegar. This balsamic vinegar is made from unfermented white Trebbiano grape juice and then aged in oak barrels. It has a rich aroma and flavor with the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity to top off any meal (or dessert).
Its thick, viscous consistency is ideal for all uses, from drizzling to dipping to sipping. And with just one ingredient, 25 Year Old 100% Balsamic Vinegar, you don't have to worry about artificial ingredients or coloring.
Price at time of publication: $33
Size:15.5 ounces |Alter:25 years |Region:Modena, Italy |grape variety:White Trebbiano Grapes |IGP or DOP stamp:Not displayed
"Balsamic vinegar is great for salad dressings or bread dips, but I like to use it in a variety of ways, such as B. as a glaze to cover roasted tomatoes to bring out the sweetness, or even on my Chili Oil Pasta where it... adds a slight but sweet acidity to a savory dish.—Dzung Lewis, Autor von The Honeysuckle Cookbook: 100 Healthy, Feel-Good Recipes to Live Deliciously und Moderator des Honeysuckle-Kanals auf YouTube
Best matured: Giuseppe Giusti Deposito Balsamic Vinegar from Modena
Gran Deposito uses a traditional Italian process to create this aged balsamic vinegar.
What we like
It has the IGP award
12 years
Very versatile balsamic vinegar
What we don't like
relative expensive
Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of ModenaIt has to come from specific regions of Italy, be made in a traditional way and be judged by tasters before it can be bottled in a specific type of bottle with a numbered seal. All of these steps increase the cost of the vinegar, but also make for a better overall product.
This vinegar can be easily drizzled over vanilla ice cream or fresh strawberries, drunk as a digestive, or used to dress fresh ripe tomatoes. The small bottle is priced high, but if you're looking for something really special, it's well worth the money. If that is a bit too expensive for you, there is also a 12-year-old vinegar from the same company.
Price at time of publication: $40
Size:8.45 ounces |Alter:12 years |Region:Modena, Italy |grape variety:Lambrusco and Trebbiano |IGP or DOP stamp:IGP
Best value for money: Roland Foods Glazed Balsamic Vinegar of Modena
This reduction is made with authentic balsamic vinegar from Modena, Italy and comes in a squeeze bottle.
What we like
Thicker than regular balsamic vinegar.
squeeze bottle
takes a while
What we don't like
Small things have a big impact
Although there are many ways to use balsamic vinegar, some of the most well-known are drizzling, icing, and dipping. All of the options on this list are recommended for this, but none have the thickness for the price of this Roland Foods option.
This reduction is made with authentic balsamic vinegar from Modena, Italy and comes in a squeeze bottle so you can add it straight to pizza, salads, vegetables, bread, fish, desserts and more. Since this is a glaze and is heavier than some of the other options on this list, it should last for years; Take that into account along with the price and you will get a great deal.
Price at time of publication: $9
Size:5.1, 8.4, 12.84 and 27 ounces |Alter:Not Specified |Region:Modena, Italygrape variety:Not Specified |IGP or DOP stamp:Not displayed
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Best for dipping: OMG! Barrel Aged Classic Balsamic Vinegar
The low acidity and subtle flavor make it an ideal choice for dipping into a warm, crusty piece of bread.
What we like
Available in different flavors
low acidity
thick consistency
What we don't like
A tall, narrow bottle can be difficult to store
The low acidity and subtle flavor of the OMG! The classic barrel-aged balsamic vinegar is the ideal choice for dippingPiece of crusty breadstraight from the oven (or from your local bakery) or as an addition to some of our favoritesolive oils.
This high quality, authentic vinegar is made from Trebbiano grapes grown in Modena, Italy and then aged in oak barrels in Napa Valley for 12 to 18 years. It has a versatile flavor profile and a naturally thick texture that make it an excellent choice and finish. . It comes in convenient sizes, such as a 12.7-ounce bottle for when you want to keep a little extra on hand. However, it is very tall so it may not fit in some pantries or closets. It is also available cheaper6 ounce bottleThis is ideal as a gift and for on the go.
Price at time of publication: $32
Size:12.7 ounces |Alter:12-18 years |Region:Napa Valley, Kalifornien |grape variety:Trebbiano grapes |IGP or DOP stamp:Not displayed
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Best for Salads: Ellora Farms Balsamic Vinegar Spray
Ellora Farms makes its balsamic vinegar from red grapes grown on vineyards in Crete, Greece.
What we like
practical spray bottle
glass bottle
strong taste
What we don't like
The amount is small
With Ellora Farms Balsamic Vinegar Spray, the days of drenching parts of your salad and turning others on are over. Ellora Farms creates its balsamic vinegar from red grapes grown on vineyards in Crete, Greece, and then ages them in oak barrels for six months to create a premium balsamic vinegar with balanced sweet and sour flavors that is the perfect complement to all varieties. Eat
And the clog-free sprays not only give you perfect distribution of the balsamic vinegar, they also feature an innovative design that reaches to the bottom of the bottle so you can get every last drop.
Price at time of publication: $20
Size:3.38 ounces |Alter:6 Fun |Region:Crete, Greece |grape variety:Not specified|IGP or DOP stamp:Not displayed
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Beste Glasur: Colavitas Balsamico-Glasur
Made in Italy, the thickened glaze offers the perfect balance of acidity and sweetness.
What we like
Large quantity
Great price per ounce
thick consistency
What we don't like
slightly acidic
Colavita's Balsamic Glaze is made by further reducing balsamic vinegar to boil off excess water, taking viscosity to a whole new level. Made in Italy, the thickened glaze has the perfect balance of acidity and sweetness, making it an ideal barbecue sauce forMeat, chicken, fish and vegetables. It's also great for drizzling over salads, cheese, pasta, fresh fruit or desserts as a final icing.
And since it's available at a great price, around 40 to 50 cents an ounce, you can be a little more generous with your portions or use it as a marinade.
Price at time of publication: $19
Size:8.5, 29.5 and 32 ounces |Alter:Not Specified |Region:Modena, Italy |grape variety:Not Specified |IGP or DOP stamp:Not displayed
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Best White Balsamic: O Olive Oil, White Balsamic Vinegar
For a milder vinegar flavor for salads, fruit, desserts and more, we recommend this white balsamic vinegar variant.
What we like
affordability
fruity taste
Made from Muscat grapes
What we don't like
The open mouth can pour quickly
For a milder vinegar taste for salads, fruit, desserts and morewhite balsamic vinegarWe recommend this option. It's made from nutmeg grapes in California and doesn't overpower any other flavor.
The cheaper price is ideal for anyone wanting to try an alternative balsamic flavor. Just be careful with the bottle. It has a wider opening and a cork and since the vinegar is not very thick it can leak quickly.
Price at time of publication: $9
Size:6.8 and 10.1 ounces |Alter:Not Specified |Region:California|grape variety:Moscatel |IGP or DOP stamp:Not displayed
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Bestes Bio: QO Gourmet Bio-Balsamic-Essig
This multi-flavor balsamic vinegar is made from organic grapes and organic wine vinegar.
What we like
totally organic
Available in different flavors
Balanced flavor profile
What we don't like
The consistency is a bit runny.
Double organic certification by bothCCPB S.R.L.. Made in Italy and USDA certified, you can be assured you're getting authentic balsamic vinegar with every bottle of QO Gourmet Organic Balsamic Vinegar.
QO Gourmet produces its balsamic vinegar in small batches by combining organic grape must with organic wine vinegar and then aging and refining it in wooden barrels. The result is a thick, full-bodied balsamic vinegar that is truly versatile with its tangy sweetness and balanced aroma.
If you are looking for an organic balsamic vinegar infusion, QO offers you the choice of citrus, hot chilli, blueberries and raspberries.
Price at time of publication: $37
Size:8.5 ounces |Alter:Not Specified |Region:Modena, Italy |grape variety:Trebbiano and Lambrusco |IGP or DOP stamp:Not displayed
Best Fig Balsamic: Black Mission Fig Aged Balsamic Vinegar by Chef Jean Pierre
The added sweetness and fruity undertones of fig make it ideal for drizzling over ice cream or fruit.
What we like
Contains no added preservatives or sweeteners.
thick consistency
Great overall value
What we don't like
Too cute for all uses
Chef Jean Pierre's Black Mission Fig Aged Balsamic Vinegar has a distinct sweetness and a thick, syrupy consistency that really makes it the star of the show. This balsamic vinegar is made from grapes from Modena, Italy and is reduced with no added preservatives or sweeteners.
While it's just as versatile as regular balsamic vinegar, you can use it on salads, grilled meat or vegetables, or in recipes like this one.FIG jam—the added sweetness and fruity undertones of fig make them ideal for drizzling over ice,Grilled Peaches, or a plate of fresh berries.
Price at time of publication: $22
Size:7 ounces |Alter:18 years |Region:Modena, Italy |grape variety:Trebbiano |IGP or DOP stamp:Not displayed
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Best Gift Set: Organic Mantova Flavored Balsamic Vinegar 4-Pack
The set includes four highly versatile flavors that enhance any dish, from fish to chicken, from salad to ice cream.
What we like
Bio
Great variety of tastes
Balanced flavor profiles
Excellent value for money
What we don't like
Does not contain normal balsamic vinegar
Mantova takes tradition and authenticity seriously when it grows, sources, presses and bottles its balsamic vinegars in Modena, Italy. These flavored vinegars are made by combining concentrated and cooked organic grape must with organic wine vinegar and natural flavors. The vinegar is then aged in wooden barrels to create complex flavors that combine fruity, sweet and sour flavors and aromas in one bottle.
This four-pack contains raspberry, fig, pomegranate and pear, four highly versatile flavors that enhance any dish, from fish to chicken, salad to ice cream.
Price at time of publication: $28
Size:8.5 ounces per bottle |Alter:Not Specified |Region:Modena, Italy |grape variety:Not specified|IGP or DOP stamp:Not displayed
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IsVSOP Balsamic Vinegar aged 25 years in barrelsIt covers all the bases at a fair price. If you're looking for something more specific, this is itEllora Farms Balsamic-Essigsprayis ideal for salads while theMY GOD! Barrel Aged Classic Balsamic Vinegarit is better to wet.
What to look for in balsamic vinegar
Alter
Like wine, balsamic vinegar gets better with age, and the longer a variety ages, the more expensive it tends to be. Maturation produces vinegars with a more concentrated and complex flavor. The consistency of the vinegar will also change over time, becoming thicker and more syrupy as more and more of the water in the vinegar evaporates over time.
variety of grapes
The type of grapes and the region they come from affect the taste and price of the vinegar. Balsamic varieties, made exclusively from grapes from Italy's Modena and Reggio Emilia regions, are the gold standard and also the most expensive.
Production
As for aging and grape variety, the best balsamic vinegars are vinegars made using traditional methods in the Italian regions of Modena and Reggio Emilia. To find out where and how a vinegar was made, look at the label.
If a balsamic vinegar bears the designation "Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale", which is classified as a D.O.P. is known. Siegel, has been produced in one of these two regions and has been aged for at least 12 years, in accordance with Italian laws for the production of balsamic vinegar.
Vinegars with the D.O.P. Seals are the most expensive, but only includegrape juiceThey are therefore thicker, sweeter and more aromatic than unsealed vinegars. Heat can destroy the flavor of traditional balsamic vinegars, so it's best to drizzle over cooked dishes, desserts, and salads to let the flavor shine through.
The least expensive varieties are made with grapes from outside the Modena region, have shorter maturities, and may contain other ingredients like acidic wine vinegar and caramel coloring to keep costs down.
Are you looking for an I.G.P. This stamp on these bottles confirms that the grapes used are comparable to those grown in Modena and that the vinegar is still produced in the Modena region according to certain Italian standards. I.G.P. The balsamic varieties are better for cooking because they contain more water that evaporates during the reductions.
frequently asked questions
How is balsamic vinegar made?
Traditional balsamic vinegar is made from only white grapes (usually Trebbiano grapes), but many commercial vinegars combine grape must and wine vinegar. To make grape must, whole grapes are harvested and then pressed or crushed into a liquid. The liquid is boiled to remove excess water and form a concentrate. It is then transferred to wooden barrels for fermentation and maturation.
Traditional balsamic vinegar ages between 12 and 25 years (or more), while commercial balsamic vinegar ages between two months and three years and is mixed with wine vinegar to speed up the acidification process.
Is Balsamic Vinegar Gluten Free?
Real balsamic vinegar is naturally gluten-free. However, poor quality vinegars can be mixed with additives and colorings containing gluten. Be sure to always read labels and ingredient lists to check for added ingredients.
Is Balsamic Vinegar Vegan?
Yes, real balsamic vinegar is vegan. However, just like with gluten, the added ingredients in low-quality vinegars may not be suitable for vegans. Always check your labels when purchasing non-genuine balsamic vinegar.
Does balsamic vinegar contain sugar?
Real balsamic vinegar contains no added sugars, instead it is made from concentrated grapes that contain natural sugars. A tablespoon of balsamic vinegar contains 2.4 grams of sugar. Commercial balsamic vinegar may contain sugar to sweeten it a bit. So always check the labels.
How long does balsamic vinegar keep?
Traditional balsamic vinegar is aged in wooden casks for up to 25 years and, like other aged liquids such as rum or whiskey, gets better the longer it is stored. How to Preserve Traditional Balsamic Vinegar for Many Years (The Assistant Institutesays almost unlimited), and it will be just as good, if not better, than when you bought it.
Commercially available balsamic vinegar generally has a shelf life of three to five years. It doesn't necessarily have to spoil or go bad, but it usually tastes better during this time.
Does balsamic vinegar need to be refrigerated?
No, you can store balsamic vinegar in your pantry or in a cool, dark place. If you like to use balsamic vinegar to prepare the dressing and prefer it cold, you can keep it in the fridge.
how we research
To compile this list, our team of editors and contributors spent hours researching the best balsamic vinegars on the market in this category, evaluating key traits like grape variety, flavor profile, price, and customer reviews, as well as other reliable sources. .
Why should you trust The Spruce Eats?
Lindsay Boyersis a Certified Holistic Nutritionist with extensive nutritional knowledge and experience testing food and beverages. He has developed over 1,000 original recipes and is constantly searching for the healthiest, tastiest options and ingredients across all food and drink categories.
This summary was updated bySharon Lehman, a home cook who happens to be a registered nutritionist. She's a bit obsessed with trying new foods and finding the healthiest and tastiest options. When Sharon isn't browsing the aisles of the supermarket, she writes evidence-based nutrition articles, develops recipes and specializes in small kitchen appliance reviews for The Spruce Eats.
More details were added laterBrigitt Earley, a freelance writer with almost 15 years of experience covering trends and products in the lifestyle and food and beverage sectors. Brigitt has a degree in Culinary Arts from the French Culinary Institute and has previously worked as a chef in a professional kitchen. She loves balsamic vinegar and uses it in everything from sauces to salad dressings to marinades.
This has been updated again byAmanda McDonald, an editor at The Spruce Eats who has over seven years' experience researching, writing and editing everything food-related, from the latest items in the supermarket to chef-recommended hacks that keep tough leftovers fresh for days. She has updated this article to include the most current information.
Fuentes
Dzung Lewis, Autor von The Honeysuckle Cookbook: 100 Healthy, Feel-Good Recipes to Live Deliciously und Moderator des Honeysuckle-Kanals auf YouTube
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