What does Balsamico di Modena IGP mean?
Balsamico di Modena IGP is a protected Italian designation. IGP stands for Indicazione Geografica Protetta, which means Protected Geographical Indication. It signifies that the balsamic vinegar falls within the official Modena chain and must comply with established rules for composition, origin, and production.
Is this real Balsamico di Modena?
Yes. This is Aceto Balsamico di Modena IGP. That is the official category for Balsamico di Modena with a protected geographical indication. It is therefore different from a general balsamic dressing or a balsamic condiment without IGP status.
Is this balsamic organic?
Yes. This Balsamico di Modena IGP is made with organic ingredients: cooked organic grape must and organic wine vinegar. In layman's terms: reduced juice from organic grapes and organic wine vinegar.
How does this Balsamico di Modena IGP taste?
Fresh, fruity, and classically balsamic, with clear acidity, light sweetness, and subtle woody notes. This is not a thick, sweet balsamic cream, but a fresher balsamic for savory dishes.
Is this balsamic primarily sour or sweet?
This balsamic has clear fresh acidity, with light sweetness in the background. If you are looking for a softer, fuller, and somewhat more syrupy balsamic dressing, Oilalà Majestic is probably a better fit. You can find it here.
What do you use this balsamic for?
For salads, tomatoes, raw or grilled vegetables, cheese, meat, fish, marinades, and Mediterranean dishes. It works well when you want to add freshness, sweet-sourness, and a distinct balsamic accent.
What is the difference with Oilalà Majestic?
In terms of taste, the Majestic is rounder, slightly sweeter, and fuller; this IGP is fresher and more classic. Majestic is an Italian balsamic dressing. This bottle is Aceto Balsamico di Modena IGP organic. The difference mainly lies in the official IGP status, the origin from Modena, and the organic ingredients.
Is this the same as traditional balsamic?
No. Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale di Modena is a different, much more expensive category with its own rules and long aging process. This bottle is Balsamico di Modena IGP: officially protected, but intended for broader daily use.
Is this balsamic thick?
No, this is not a thick balsamic cream. This Balsamico di Modena IGP is easily pourable and more classic in style: fresh, fruity, and distinctly balsamic.
What is grape must?
Grape must is the juice from pressed grapes. In balsamic vinegar, this must is cooked down, making the grape juice more concentrated and richer. Afterwards, it is combined with wine vinegar and further processed according to the rules of the balsamic category.
Does this balsamic contain sulfites?
Yes. This Balsamico di Modena IGP contains sulfites.
How do you store this balsamic?
Store the bottle in a cool, dark place, well-sealed and away from direct sunlight. Refrigeration is usually not necessary.
