12 Year 100% Balsamic Vinegar (REALE Condimenti) by Acetaia Leonardi

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 12-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 12-year cycle, the must has gone through 12 barrels of different woods (all 6 used twice) 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, so 12-year Balsamic is very special.The box and the bottle itself are beautiful and reflect the product’s refinement.

What about Aceto Balsamico? Aceto Balsamico di Modena IGP is a name created in 2009 so that more, and less expensive, balsamic could be sold. This product can be made with grape must that is only 60 days old, and the product can be up to 80% wine vinegar. Caramel coloring and other things can also be added. REALE Condimenti Balsamici are made with one ingredient: grapes! The word “Condimento” for Balsamic Vinegar tells you that the product is made from 100% cooked grape must. However, if you're looking for a bit more tartness, our REALE 4-year Aceto Balsamico di Modena is made of just two ingredients: 80% cooked grape must and 20% wine vinegar. You can shop REALE 4-year Aceto Balsamico di Modena IGP here.

This 100% Balsamic Vinegar is so delicious it will complement most anything. Some of our favorites are in pasta, soups, rice or spooned over any grilled meat, vegetable or cheese.  At this age, the Vinegar is rich enough to simply enjoy a spoonful! Try one at the end of a meal to help with digestion.