The production of Aceto Balsamico di Modena IGP must follow precise rules set out in the “Production Specifications,” the document that defines its characteristics, production process, and presentation requirements.
Every bottle of Aceto Balsamico di Modena IGP is subject to a system of controls and certification that verifies compliance with the Production Specifications, assuring consumers of the product’s authenticity and quality.
To recognize authentic Aceto Balsamico di Modena IGP, it is important to check for these three elements on the label:
The full Italian designation “Aceto Balsamico di Modena,” which may be accompanied by a translation in the language of the country where the product is marketed. It may also be accompanied by the designation “Invecchiato” (Aged) if the product has been aged for more than 3 years in wooden casks or vats, or “Riserva” if it has been aged for more than 5 years.
The wording “Indicazione Geografica Protetta” or the acronym “IGP,” in Italian or in the language of the country where the product is marketed.
The yellow and blue Protected Geographical Indication (PGI or IGP in Italian) logo. For black-and-white labels only, the logo may be reproduced in the same black-and-white format.
Another important point to check is the wording used on the label.
The designation “Aceto Balsamico di Modena” may not be accompanied by adjectives, qualifying terms, or numerical indications that are not provided for in the Production Specifications. Terms such as “extra,” “fine,” “selected,” “carefully selected,” “superior,” “classic,” or similar expressions are therefore not permitted, nor are numbers used to suggest a particular level of quality or a specific period of aging or maturation.
The only exceptions are the designations “Invecchiato” (Aged) and “Riserva.” The designation “Invecchiato” may be accompanied by an indication of the minimum aging period of at least three years, while for “Riserva,” the minimum aging period of five years may be indicated.
Aceto Balsamico di Modena tells its story even before you taste it.
It does so through its color, aroma, and unmistakable sweet-and-tart harmony.
The Production Specifications establish the following characteristics for Aceto Balsamico di Modena:
Clear and brilliant
deep brown
sweet and tart, balanced and harmonious
not less than 1.06 for the standard product, 1.15 for the Invecchiato (Aged) product, and 1.25 for the Riserva product.
delicate and persistent, slightly vinegary, with possible woody notes
at least 6% for the standard product and 5.5% for Invecchiato and Riserva products.
Over time, Aceto Balsamico di Modena continues to develop, mature, and evolve.
Want to learn more about the characteristics that make Aceto Balsamico di Modena IGP unique? Discover the Consortium Profile, the segmentation system developed by the Consortium to showcase its characteristics and culinary uses.
