balsamic vinegar

of the many brands and prices, how do I pick the best balsamic to start experimenting with? My principal use will be in salads.

GinoandAlice
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6 Comments

Beamer April 29, 2012
I've used Alessi in the past for marinades and it has worked fine; not too costly either
 
Kitsune April 29, 2012
I get my good stuff from http://fioreoliveoils.com/site/ . I have been to the store and did the tasting... have yet to find anything better.
 
beno510 April 29, 2012
Aim for a balsamic that doesn't have added sugar or artificial additives. Good ones will have an age on the bottle. 5 years or less will be fresher and sharper whereas 25 years or older are likely to require you to take out a second mortgage and probably only for the expert or the wealthy!
 
pierino April 29, 2012
Fini is a good brand (for commercial as opposed to artisinal balsamics). From Modena in Italy.

You might also do a comparison with good quality, aged Spanish sherry vinaigrette. Often a better value with better flavor.
 
Maedl April 29, 2012
Cook's Illustrated often tests products and publishes the results. The magazine--or website if you have a digital subscription--is always a good place to start.
 
drbabs April 29, 2012
Is there a shop near you that does tastings? I spent a fun afternoon recently trying different vinegars in a local specialty store.
 
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