Organoleptic characteristics - Consorzio Tutela Aceto Balsamico di Modena

Balsamic Vinegar of Modena (Aceto Balsamico di Modena) vs wine vinegar

Balsamic Vinegar of Modena (Aceto Balsamico di Modena) differs from wine vinegar in the balanced composition of its constituent elements. Its physical, chemical and organoleptic characteristics are combined in a unique way; in addition, it has a higher content of extractive substances and volatile compounds. This is why there must be a careful choice of the grapes that give Balsamic Vinegar of Modena (Aceto Balsamico di Modena) its unmistakable aroma. PGI specifications require that the cooked or concentrated grape must shall come from only seven varietals, all typical of the Modena and Reggio Emilia area: Lambrusco, Trebbiano, Sangiovese, Albana, Ancellotta, Fortana, and Montuni.

Distinctive characteristics

The Balsamic Vinegar of Modena (Aceto Balsamico di Modena) designation is reserved for vinegars with the following characteristics:

clear and brilliant appearance;
brown and intense colour;
bitter-sweet and balanced flavour;
slightly acetic and delicate aroma, persistent, with woody overtones;
density of the matured product no lower than 1.06 at a temperature of 20°C, 1.15 for the “Aged” product and 1.25 for the “Riserva”;
actual alcohol strength no more than 1.5% by volume
total acidity no less than 6% for the matured product or 5,5% for “Invecchiato” and “Riserva”;
total sulphur anhydride: no more than 100 mg/litre;
ash: no less than 2.5 per thousand;
net dry extract: no less than 30 gr/litre;
reducing sugars: no less than 110 gr/litre.

Classification according to ageing

Balsamic Vinegar of Modena marketed with the above characteristics can be further distinguished into three types, based on the ageing period. It is simply called Balsamic Vinegar of Modena (Aceto Balsamico di Modena PGI) when the ageing period is less than three years (with a minimum of 60 days). When, on the other hand, the ageing period is longer than three years, the designation Balsamic Vinegar of Modena Aged (Aceto Balsamico di Modena PGI Invecchiato) is used; if aged longer than five years the product becomes Balsamic Vinegar of Modena Aged Reserve (Aceto Balsamico di Modena PGI Invecchiato Riserva), or just Balsamic Vinegar of Modena Reserve (Aceto Balsamico di Modena PGI Riserva).

One set of specifications, different vinegars

Because of the different production processes and ingredients used, Balsamic Vinegar of Modena (Aceto Balsamico di Modena) is sold with characteristics that can vary greatly. If Balsamic Vinegar of Modena (Aceto Balsamico di Modena) has been aged for more than three or even five years, it results in an excellent condiment for cooked vegetables and meats.