GIUSEPPE GIUSTI Balsamic Vinegar of Modena "Classico" 8 year

GIUSTI is the greatest name in the history of balsamic vinegars. First documented as an established producer of balsamic vinegar in Modena in 1605, Giuseppe Giusti is celebrated worldwide for superior quality. Having earned countless distinctions through the centuries, including supplier to royalty, Giusti continues to receive recognition and demonstrate its excellence as an extraordinary producer of gourmet vinegar.

This particular Classico variety of the venerable Giuseppe Giusti Balsamic Vinegars of Modena is listed among the delicacies in 101 Things to Buy Before you Die. We highly recommend adding it to the top of your own personal gastronomic bucket list. But once may not be enough.

Stamped with two gold medals, the Classico balsamic comes to fruition only after eight full years of aging in the antique barrels of Giusti’s famous Great Reserve. The world’s largest collection of rare barrels, Guisti’s holdings date to the 1500s. This matchless heritage provides the optimal nurturing for the world’s finest vinegars, lending an inimitable complexity as it draws upon the flavors and aromas of centuries of exquisite balsamics.

Classico presents a rich aroma and optimal balance of sour and sweet. Perfectly suited for meat and fish, omelettes, grilled vegetables or a full-bodied vinaigrette.

Balsamic vinegar is not wine vinegar, but is rather made from unfermented grape pressings. The fresh juice is boiled down to a thick, sweet syrup. It then goes into wooden barrels, where, along with a vinegar “mother,” it ages. This process, which can continue indefinitely, further concentrates the vinegar, while the thickening and sweetening intensifies. The choice of types of wood and age of the barrels contribute further character and flavor to the final product.