Best Balsamic Vinegars of 2025

Ashley Abels Avatar
Ashley Abels
Last Updated: Jan 16, 2025

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Balsamic vinegar is a type of vinegar that originates from Italy and is made from concentrated grape juice that has been aged in oak barrels. It has a distinct sweet and tangy flavor that makes it a popular ingredient in many dishes, including salads, marinades, and sauces. There are different types of balsamic vinegar, ranging from traditional to commercial varieties, and they vary in quality and price. Some are aged for decades, resulting in a thicker and sweeter flavor, while others are made with added sugar and caramel, producing a more affordable and consistent taste. Overall, balsamic vinegar is a versatile and flavorful ingredient that adds depth and complexity to any dish.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Giuseppe Giusti - Gran Deposito Aceto Balsamico Di Giuseppe Giusti Moderna Cover #TOP 1
Giuseppe Giusti - Gran Deposito Aceto Balsamico Di Giuseppe Giusti Moderna
ftb score rating icon 9.9
365 Organic Balsamic Vinegar of Modena Cover #TOP 2
365 Organic Balsamic Vinegar of Modena
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Due Vittorie Oro Gold Barrel Aged Balsamic Vinegar Cover #TOP 3
Due Vittorie Oro Gold Barrel Aged Balsamic Vinegar
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Balsamic Vinegars

#TOP 1

Giuseppe Giusti - Gran Deposito Aceto Balsamico Di Giuseppe Giusti Moderna

Giuseppe Giusti - Gran Deposito Aceto Balsamico Di Giuseppe Giusti Moderna Cover
Giusti - Balsamic Vinegar of Modena 3 Gold Medals - Cubica 250ml

Giuseppe Giusti's Gran Deposito Aceto Balsamico Di Giuseppe Giusti Moderna is a traditional Italian balsamic vinegar made from the must of cooked sundried grapes and aged wine vinegar. Aged to perfection in special barrels handed down for generations of the Giusti family, this gourmet balsamic vinegar brings notes of plum jam, red fruit, honey, and vanilla. Perfect for fresh pasta, soft cheese, fresh fruit, or cocktails, Giusti's balsamic vinegar is a truly classic taste.

What We Like
Rich and complex flavor
Thick and creamy consistency
Excellent on various dishes
High quality and premium experience
Beautiful packaging
What We Don't Like
Price has increased recently

365 Organic Balsamic Vinegar of Modena

365 Organic Balsamic Vinegar of Modena Cover
365 by Whole Foods Market, Organic Balsamic Vinegar of Modena, 16.9 Fl Oz

Introducing 365 Organic Balsamic Vinegar of Modena by Whole Foods Market. This high-quality balsamic vinegar meets Whole Foods Market's strict quality standards, ensuring it is free from over 100 prohibited ingredients. With 365 Organic Balsamic Vinegar, you can elevate your dishes to new heights. Its rich flavor and smooth texture make it a versatile addition to your kitchen. Whether you're using it to dress salads, marinate meats, or drizzle over fresh fruits, this balsamic vinegar will add a delightful tang and depth to your culinary creations. Plus, being an Amazon brand, you can trust the quality and enjoy the convenience of having it delivered right to your doorstep.

What We Like
Great flavor
Reasonable price
Low sugar content
Versatile for salads
Good packaging for shipping
What We Don't Like
Difficult to open
#TOP 3

Due Vittorie Oro Gold Barrel Aged Balsamic Vinegar

Due Vittorie Oro Gold Barrel Aged Balsamic Vinegar Cover
Due Vittorie Oro Gold, Barrel Aged Balsamic Vinegar of Modena IGP With Cork Pourer, All-Natural, Extra Dense Premium Vinegar Aceto Balsamico di Modena IGP Italy - 8.45fl oz / 250ml

Experience the smooth and full-bodied sweetness of Due Vittorie Oro Balsamic Vinegar. Made in Modena, Italy, this PGI-certified balsamic vinegar is aged in oak barrels to enhance its taste and aroma. With a natural acidity level of 6%, it is smoother than other balsamic vinegars. Its full-bodied sweetness blends harmoniously with the degree of acidity and after-taste of black cherries. Due Vittorie Oro is created from a reduction of Trebbiano and Lambrusco grapes from Modena, Italy, ensuring you are getting the best quality product. Its cork pourer makes it easy to use and store.

What We Like
Thick and delicious flavor
Versatile for various dishes
High quality and rich taste
Good balance of sweet and sour
Easy to use bottle design
What We Don't Like
Cork may break easily
#TOP 4

Mantova Organic Flavored Balsamic Vinegar of Modena 4-Variety Pack

Mantova Organic Flavored Balsamic Vinegar of Modena 4-Variety Pack Cover
Mantova Organic Flavored Balsamic Vinegar of Modena 4-Variety Pack: Fig, Pear, Pomegranate, & Raspberry; Perfect for Gift Basket, Add to Pasta, Salad, Ice Cream and Cocktails, 8.5 oz per bottle

Mantova Organic Flavored Balsamic Vinegar of Modena is a certified USDA Organic product imported from Modena, Italy. This full-bodied vinegar has a rich color and an acidity level of 6%. It comes in four flavors: Fig, Pear, Pomegranate, and Raspberry. It is reasonably priced for everyday use and can be used to make ordinary dishes extraordinary. It is also an excellent gift for any occasion.

What We Like
Variety of flavors
High-quality packaging
Great for salads
Robust balsamic flavor
Enhances everyday meals
What We Don't Like
Not syrupy or thick
Fruit flavor is subtle
#TOP 5

Due Vittorie Oro Gold Balsamic Vinegar

ABMA111
Due Vittorie Oro Gold Balsamic Vinegar Cover
Due Vittorie Oro Gold, Barrel Aged Balsamic Vinegar of Modena IGP With Cork Pourer, All-Natural, Extra Dense Premium Vinegar Aceto Balsamico di Modena IGP Italy - 8.45fl oz / 250ml - Pack of 2

Due Vittorie Oro Gold Balsamic Vinegar of Modena IGP is a premium, all-natural, extra dense balsamic vinegar made from a reduction of Trebbiano and Lambrusco grapes from Modena, Italy. Aged in oak barrels, it has a natural acidity level of 6%, a full-bodied sweetness, and a smooth flavor. It comes with a cork pourer and is PGI (IGP) certified for quality assurance.

What We Like
Rich flavor profile
Thick texture, almost glaze-like
Versatile for various dishes
Great for salads and meats
Good for everyday use
What We Don't Like
Pricey compared to others
Contains sulphites
#TOP 6

Due Vittorie Oro Gold Balsamic Vinegar

ABMA111
Due Vittorie Oro Gold Balsamic Vinegar Cover
Due Vittorie Oro Gold, Barrel Aged Balsamic Vinegar of Modena IGP Without Cork Pourer, All-Natural, Extra Dense Premium Vinegar Aceto Balsamico di Modena IGP Italy - 8.45fl oz / 250ml - Pack of 2

Due Vittorie Oro Gold Vinegar is a premium quality balsamic vinegar made in Modena, Italy. It is the bestselling balsamic vinegar in Italy, with a natural acidity level of 6%, making it smoother than other vinegars. Due Vittorie Oro Gold Vinegar is PGI certified, ensuring the best quality product, and is created from a reduction of Trebbiano and Lambrusco grapes from Modena. The vinegar is aged in oak barrels, which transfers tannins and wood essence into the vinegar. Due Vittorie Oro Gold Vinegar has a full-bodied sweetness that blends harmoniously with the degree of acidity and the after-taste of black cherries. Due Vittorie Oro Gold Vinegar is perfect for adding flavor to salads, meat, fish, and vegetables.

What We Like
High-quality flavor
Syrupy consistency
Great for various dishes
Affordable compared to DOP balsamics
Beautiful packaging
What We Don't Like
Not the absolute top-tier
#TOP 7

Colavita Organic Balsamic Vinegar

69364
Colavita Organic Balsamic Vinegar Cover
Colavita Balsamic Vinegar, Organic, 17 Fl Oz

Colavita Organic Balsamic Vinegar is a USDA organic and pesticide-free product that embodies the sweet and fruity flavors of Trebbiano grapes. Made with organic wine vinegar and organic concentrated grape must, this balsamic vinegar is a high-quality choice for your culinary needs. With its organic certification, you can trust that it is made with the utmost care and without the use of harmful chemicals. The sweet and fruity flavors of the Trebbiano grapes add a delightful touch to dressings, marinades, and sauces. Its organic nature ensures that you are using a product that is good for both you and the environment.

What We Like
Great flavor for dressings
Organic ingredients
Good value for price
Thicker than store brands
Classy packaging
What We Don't Like
Somewhat acidic
#TOP 8

Colavita Aged Balsamic Vinegar of Modena IGP, 3 years

Colavita Aged Balsamic Vinegar of Modena IGP, 3 years Cover
Colavita Aged Balsamic Vinegar of Modena IGP, 3 years, 8.5 Floz Glass Bottle

Experience the rich and intense flavor in Colavita Aged Balsamic Vinegar of Modena IGP. Aged for 3 years in oak, cherry, and walnut barrels, this aromatic vinegar has a high level of cooked grape must (55%) and is certified as a product of Modena, Italy. With an acidity of 6%, this balsamic vinegar is perfect for enhancing the taste of any dish.

What We Like
Powerful flavor boost
Great for dressings and sauces
Perfect consistency for dipping
Affordable compared to premium brands
Versatile on various foods
What We Don't Like
Syrup-like thickness
Not true balsamic vinegar
#TOP 9

Napa Valley Naturals Balsamic Vinegar

Napa Valley Naturals Balsamic Vinegar Cover
Napa Valley Naturals Grand Reserve Balsamic Vinegar, 12.7 Ounce (2-Pack)

Napa Valley Balsamic Vinegar sets a high standard for flavor, making it an excellent choice for your culinary needs. Crafted from the finest olives, grapes, seeds, or nuts sourced from top orchards and farms, this vinegar enhances your dishes with rich taste. The eye-catching wine bottles not only look great on your shelf but also make for a thoughtful gift. With a reputation built over decades, this product ensures you are using only premium ingredients in your cooking, elevating the quality of your meals effortlessly.

What We Like
Thick, syrup-like consistency
Excellent flavor enhancement
Versatile for various dishes
High-quality product
Great for plating presentation
What We Don't Like
Contains 6g of sugar
#TOP 10

Kirkland Signature Organic Balsamic Vinegar

1359750
Kirkland Signature Organic Balsamic Vinegar Cover
Kirkland Signature Organic Balsamic Vinegar, 1 Liter (33.81 Fluid Ounce)

This balsamic vinegar comes in a 1 liter (33.81 fluid ounce) bottle and is categorized as an organic balsamic vinegar.

What We Like
Good taste
Versatile and smooth
High quality
Reasonable price
Great value for money
What We Don't Like
Delivery issues
Shattered glass during transit
Buying Guide Image

Everything You Need to Know About Balsamic Vinegars

Introduction

When it comes to adding a splash of flavor to your favorite dishes, few ingredients can rival the complexity and depth of balsamic vinegar. This tart, slightly sweet vinegar is a versatile staple in Italian cooking, and it can be used in a wide range of dishes. However, with so many varieties on the market, it can be difficult to know which one is best for your particular dish. To help you choose, we've compiled this guide to the best balsamic vinegars.

Types of Balsamic Vinegar

Before you can decide which type of balsamic vinegar is best for your dish, it's important to understand the different types available. True balsamic vinegar, sometimes referred to as Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale, is a thick, sweet vinegar made from white Trebbiano grapes. It must be aged for at least 12 years in wooden barrels, and it's only produced in the Modena and Reggio Emilia regions of Italy. This is the highest quality and most expensive type of balsamic vinegar.

The next type of balsamic vinegar is known as commercial grade balsamic vinegar. This type is made from wine vinegar that is combined with a concentrated grape must, and it must be aged for at least 60 days. It is not as sweet or thick as true balsamic vinegar, but it has a slightly deeper flavor and is much more affordable.

The third type of balsamic vinegar is known as condiment grade balsamic vinegar. This type of vinegar is made from concentrated grape must that is combined with wine vinegar, and it does not need to be aged. It is usually the least expensive and least flavorful of the three types.

Factors to Consider

When choosing a balsamic vinegar, there are several factors to consider. First, you should think about the type of dish you are making and how the vinegar will be used. If you're looking to add a sweet and tart flavor to a salad, opt for a commercial grade balsamic vinegar. For a more complex flavor, try a true balsamic vinegar, or if you're looking for a cheap and easy solution, go with a condiment grade balsamic vinegar.

You should also consider the flavor profile. While all balsamic vinegars are tart and slightly sweet, some are more intense than others. If you're looking for a milder flavor, opt for a commercial grade balsamic vinegar. On the other hand, if you want a more intense flavor, go for a true balsamic vinegar.

Finally, you should consider the price. True balsamic vinegars are the most expensive, followed by commercial grade balsamic vinegars. Condiment grade balsamic vinegars are usually the least expensive.

###Conclusion

When it comes to choosing a balsamic vinegar, there are several factors to consider. Think about the type of dish you're making, the flavor profile you're looking for, and the price. True balsamic vinegars are the highest quality and most expensive, while commercial grade and condiment grade balsamic vinegars are more affordable options. No matter which type of balsamic vinegar you choose, you're sure to add great flavor to your dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the benefits of balsamic vinegar?

Balsamic vinegar offers several benefits, including aiding digestion, improving blood pressure, enhancing the skin, supporting a healthy weight, increasing circulation, lowering cholesterol, and stabilizing blood sugar levels. However, it's important to enjoy the benefits in moderation and not consume excessive amounts.

2. What are the different types of balsamic vinegars?

There are three main grades of balsamic vinegar: traditional balsamic vinegar, commercial grade balsamic vinegar, and condiment grade balsamic vinegar. Each grade may have several varieties available, offering different flavors and qualities.

3. What balsamic vinegar do restaurants use?

Restaurants often use white balsamic vinegar because of its milder flavor and because it does not cause salad dressings or sauces to turn brown like regular balsamic vinegar. White balsamic vinegar is a popular choice in restaurant kitchens.

4. Are you supposed to refrigerate balsamic vinegar?

Balsamic vinegar is best stored in cool, dark places to protect it from light and heat, which can degrade its quality. If you prefer chilled balsamic vinegar for salads, you can refrigerate it. However, if you use it for sauces, marinades, or reductions, it is recommended to store it in a cupboard.

5. Is balsamic vinegar good for your liver?

Yes, balsamic vinegar is beneficial for the liver as it has detoxifying properties. It can help treat liver inflammatory disorders, such as hepatitis, which can be caused by excessive alcohol consumption, toxins, certain medications, infections, and jaundice.

6. Why is balsamic vinegar so expensive?

The high price of balsamic vinegar is primarily due to the traditional aging process. Traditional DOP Vinegar of Modena and Reggio Emilia must age for a minimum of 12 years in barrels made of specific types of wood. The most sought-after and expensive varieties are aged for up to 25 years, resulting in a premium product.

Editor's Notes

During our balsamic vinegar research, we found 24 balsamic vinegar products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 85,890 customer reviews through our big data system to write the balsamic vinegars list. We found that most customers choose balsamic vinegars with an average price of $14.69.

The balsamic vinegars are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of balsamic vinegars, including Giusti, 365 by Whole Foods Market, Due Vittorie, Mantova, COLAVITA. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 315 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Ashley Abels Avatar

Ashley Abels is a former restaurant executive and has worked in the restaurant industry for 15 years. She is also a gourmet who loves tasting different cuisines and trying out all kinds of cooking methods. The food she writes about will make you want to try it!

Balsamic Vinegars Comparison Table

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#TOP10
Brand Giusti 365 by Whole Foods Market Due Vittorie Mantova Due Vittorie Due Vittorie COLAVITA COLAVITA Napa Valley Naturals KIRKLAND
Item Form Balsamic Vinegar Syrup Balsamic Vinegar Liquid Balsamic Vinegar Balsamic Vinegar Liquid Liquid Liquid Liquid
Flavor Aged Balsamic Vinegar of Modena Organic Balsamic Vinegar With Pourer Pomegranate, Pear, Fig, Raspberry Balsamic Vinegar Without Pourer Organic Balsamic Vinegar Balsamic Vinegar Balsamic
Liquid Volume 250 Milliliters 16.9 Fluid Ounces 8.45 Fluid Ounces 8.5 Fluid Ounces 16.9 Fluid Ounces 16.9 Fluid Ounces 500 Milliliters 8.5 Fluid Ounces 250 Milliliters 1 Liters
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.8
Where to Buy