Dark Balsamic Vinegar
Looking to add some serious flavor to your cooking? Check out our selection of rich Dark Balsamic Vinegars from Saratoga Olive Oil Co.! Unlock the secrets of our outstanding dark balsamic vinegar, a true masterpiece representing centuries-old traditions and unparalleled craftsmanship. Crafted with white Trebbiano grapes, our dark balsamic showcases an exceptional production process that results in a flavor profile that is deliciously rich, sweet, and irresistible. What sets our dark balsamic vinegar apart is the slow and careful cooking of the grape juice in traditional copper kettles over an open wood fire. This method allows the grape juice, or "must," to undergo caramelization, unlocking a depth of flavor. But our dark balsamic doesn't end here; they are then stored and aged in wooden barrels for 18 years, where they undergo fermentation. The result is a pure, all-natural dark balsamic vinegar free of added sugars or thickening agents that captivates the senses. Create an irresistible balsamic glaze or a flavorful balsamic vinaigrette for dressing your everyday salads. With decadent flavors like Dark Chocolate Balsamic Vinegar, to sweet and fruity flavors like our Black Cherry Balsamic Vinegar, to our best selling Traditional 18-Year Balsamic Vinegar, you are sure to find your new favorite vinegar. Whether you're looking to spice up a salad or give your main dish a boost of flavor, our dark balsamics are sure to hit the spot. Shop now and add some serious zest to your next meal with a dark balsamic vinegar!
Customer Reviews
"I did a side-by-side comparison of the taste of Saratoga 18 year balsamic to a balsamic labeled traditional from a Maine supplier and the Saratoga 18 year has a noticeably better flavor. Saratoga is my new source for aged balsamic. "
—Donna A Chadwick ordered Traditional 18-Year Balsamic Vinegar
"The Fig Balsamic reminds me of my traditional Italian upbringing. Together with a Saratoga Olive Oil of your choice, this sweet~savory vinegar creates (single-handedly) the finest dressing for "ensalada." Fig Balsamic also lends itself to drizzle over roasted vegetables like asparagus, mushrooms, eggplant even homemade pizza! Remember to purchase the larger bottle...you're going to need it! ;)"
—Karen Morandi-Isabella ordered Fig Balsamic Vinegar
"My favorite all-time balsamic vinegar. I use it on everything! Perfect blend of sweet and sour."
—ANNE STONE ordered Blueberry Balsamic Vinegar
FAQ's
What is Dark Balsamic Vinegar?
Dark Balsamic Vinegar is a dark, thick, syrup-like aged type of vinegar, made by the reduction of cooked grapes. Unlike the sharp taste of vinegar, balsamic vinegar has a rich, sweet flavor that can be used in a wide range of dishes, both sweet and savory. Balsamic vinegar also has many health benefits making it both taste good and good for you!
Is Dark Balsamic Vinegar Good for You?
Yes! Balsamic Vinegar retains most of the nutrients present in the parent grapes and contains an adequate amount of nutrients such as iron, calcium, potassium, and magnesium. Balsamic Vinegar has antioxidant properties which can aid in digestion, help strengthen bones, and more! Incorporating balsamic vinegar into your daily diet can benefit your health greatly.
What is the Difference Between White and Dark Balsamic Vinegar?
Dark balsamic vinegar tends to be thicker and more syrup-like with a sweet and tangy flavor, whereas white balsamic vinegar tends to be lighter and more tart. Both our white and dark balsamics are produced from the same grape (surprise!), the white Trebbiano variety. The difference lies in the production method. Dark balsamic vinegar is cooked for longer, caramelizing the grape juice, giving it its signature dark hue and sweet flavor. Additionally, dark balsamic vinegar is aged for up to 18 years, six years longer than white balsamic vinegar. This difference in cooking and aging processes gives both white and dark balsamic their signature characteristics.
How is Dark Balsamic Vinegar Made?
Our dark balsamic is created by slowly cooking the grape juice in copper kettles over an open wood fire. The rich, sweet flavor comes when the cooked grape juice (also known as “must”) becomes caramelized. The grape must is then aged in wooden casks stored in attics for fermentation while incorporating the Solera method. With the Solera method, as a portion of the vinegar evaporates, each barrel is topped off with younger vinegar from the previous barrel, so each year, the new must is blended with the one from the previous year. The result of this aging process, which takes up to 18 years, is a delicious, complex, all-natural balsamic vinegar with no added sugar, thickening agents, or caramel coloring. 100% pure and 100% delicious!
Does Dark Balsamic Vinegar Need Refrigeration?
No, dark balsamic vinegar does not need refrigeration. Due to the high acidic content of dark balsamic vinegar, it acts as its own natural preservative. You can store your dark balsamic vinegar away from direct sunlight and heat sources like a pantry, cupboard, or kitchen counter. If you prefer chilled dark balsamic vinegar for salads or vinaigrettes, you can store it in the fridge.
