Italians have been making balsamic vinegar since Roman times, when its primary purposes were medicinal rather than culinary. Occasionally, it was used as a sweetener, or to enhance the flavor of ...

Williams Sonoma’s white balsamic vinegar is made in Modena by the Leonardi family, who produce an excellent range of vinegars, according to Jenkins. $30 at Williams Sonoma Buy.

True balsamic vinegar—made from grape must (the pressed juice in the first step of winemaking), naturally fermented, then aged in barrels for a minimum of 12 years—is certified by the Italian ...

Traditional Modena balsamic vinegar is made by cooking and condensing white trebbiano and lambrusco grape must until it’s about half its original volume, with a minimum sugar concentration of 30%.

Tasting real-deal balsamic vinegar for the first time can be life-changing. Traditionally made balsamic—aka “Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale”—is a far cry from the stuff you see at the ...