Traditional balsamic vinegar 12 years old 100 ml (3.38 fl. oz.)

Description

Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale di Modena D.O.P. – The Black Gold of Emilia-Romagna

Our Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale di Modena by the Manicardi family is the result of infinite patience and a centuries-old tradition. It consists of only a single ingredient: cooked must of local grape varieties (Trebbiano and Lambrusco). For at least 12 years, it journeys through the “batteria” – a series of progressively smaller barrels made from different woods such as oak, chestnut, cherry, ash, and mulberry. Only what passes the strict inspection of the Consortium may be bottled in the legendary 100 ml bottle designed by Giugiaro. An elixir that transforms time into taste.

Product Details & Quality Features:

• Status: Protected Designation of Origin (D.O.P.) – guaranteed traditional production in Modena.

• Aging: At least 12 years (Affinato) – aged in wooden barrel batteries in the lofts of Castelvetro.

• Ingredients: 100% cooked grape must. No wine vinegar, no caramel, no preservatives.

• Appearance: Deep black, glossy, and characterized by a syrupy, almost creamy viscosity. It leaves a dense coating on the glass.

• Packaging: The official 100 ml certified Consortium bottle, usually presented in an elegant gift box.

The Sensory Profile:

On the nose, you experience a highly complex, ethereal bouquet: a fascinating mixture of ripe fruit, fine woody spice, and a trace of vanilla and licorice. On the palate, a perfect, “magical” balance unfolds: an intense, natural sweetness melts into a noble, perfectly integrated acidity. The texture is velvety and full-bodied; the finish lasts for minutes, revealing ever-new facets inherited from the different barrel woods.

Culinary Applications:

• Enjoy Pure: A few drops on Parmigiano Reggiano (aged at least 24 months) are the epitome of Italian culinary pleasure.

• Finest Pasta: Refines tortellini, pumpkin ravioli, or a classic risotto just moments before serving.

• Meat Perfection: A drop on paper-thin beef carpaccio or a grilled fillet.

• Strawberry Magic: Probably the most famous combination – a few drops over fresh strawberries elevate their aroma into a new dimension.

• Dessert Luxury: Fantastic with authentic vanilla gelato or a panna cotta.

Expert Knowledge: The Tradizionale differs fundamentally from the common “Aceto Balsamico di Modena I.G.P.” While the latter is a mixture of must and vinegar, the Tradizionale is obtained through natural fermentation and slow concentration via evaporation in wooden barrels. The high content of natural grape sugars and extractives provides the unique density, while years of “breathing” through the wood are responsible for its oxidative complexity.