REALE 100% Balsamic Vinegar: 8 Year (250ml)

REALE Condimenti are REAL, 100% Balsamic Vinegar! There is just ONE ingredient – grapes. The Leonardi family has been making Balsamic Vinegar for 147 years with sheer artistry and craft. They use Lambrusco and Trebbiano grapes that are grown on their estate in Italy. The grapes are cooked at a low temperature for 36 hours, and the concentrated cooked grape juice that results is called grape must. The word “Condimento” for Balsamic Vinegar tells you that the product is made from 100% cooked grape must. 

How it's produced: For 8-year REALE Condimenti Balsamici, the grape must (cooked, concentrated grape juice) is placed in large wooden barrels (oak, chestnut, cherry, ash, juniper, and mulberry) with a starter, similar to sourdough bread. At the end of the first year, the must is moved to smaller barrels made from a different wood. Each wood type imparts a different flavor to the vinegar, resulting in a balanced flavor. At the end of the 8-year cycle, the must has gone through 8 barrels of different woods to achieve its full character and distinctive flavor. The flavor of Balsamic evolves over time and the longer it is aged, the richer and sweeter it becomes. 

What about Aceto Balsamico? Our 8-year Aceto Balsamico di Modena is made of 80% cooked grape must and 20% wine vinegar for a bit more tartness. You can shop REALE 8-year Aceto Balsamico di Modena IGP here.

This 100% Balsamic Vinegar is delicious on any salad or greens, but try it on grilled or roasted meats of all variety, fish, vegetables and also cheese.  At this age, the Vinegar has enough sweetness to even be served over ice cream or fruit!