balsamic vinegar

A dark, intense wine vinegar from Modena in Italy, balsamic vinegar receives its name from its healing "balm-like" qualities. The vinegar is reduced to a must, concentrated and aged from 1 to 10 years in oak casks. Balsamic vinegar is used sparingly in cooking because of its rich flavor, and is often used in salad dressings. Good balsamic vinegar is coveted and treated like a precious wine.