Best Gourmet Balsamic Vinegars

Let Gourmet Living's barrel-aged balsamic vinegar from Modena, Italy transform your meals into a culinary work of art ! How Balsamic Vinegar is Made: Balsamic Vinegar occurs from the fermentation of cooked must and is aged in a series of wood barrels. After pressing the grapes and removing the skin, seeds and stalks, the mixture is cooked in an open container to achieve a concentrated must through evaporation. The cooled wine must becomes dark brown and viscous with a high sugar content. This wine must is then stored in a battery of wooden barrels. As needed, wine must is mixed with wine vinegar to produce most commercial balsamic vinegars. The price of balsamic vinegar is determined by the percentage of wine vinegar added to the wine must concentrate. Despite many false claims, Traditional balsamic vinegar consists only of 100% wine must - no wine vinegar or additives - and is bottled exclusively by the Italian growers consortium in a distinctive 100 ml bottle. Balsamic vinaigrettes contain a high percentage of wine vinegar and often undesirable additives. IGP Certified Balsamic Vinegar: IGP balsamic vinegar consists of a mixture of wine must and wine vinegar to produce an acidity level of no less that 6.0%. The Italian consortium monitors the aging process, belling and origin of the vinegar. Grades of IGP vinegars are based on taste and viscosity. Goccia d'Oro is a premium balsamic vinegar. Cooking with Balsamic Vinegar: Given its versatility, balsamic vinegar tends to enhance the flavors of most foods. It is traditionally served with parmesan cheese, salads, fish, roasted meats and vegetables. Great Gift for Home Cooks and Chefs With its stunning packaging that is enclosed and protected in the shipping box, this authentic balsamic vinegar is a wonderful gift for most occasions.