Best Balsamic Vinegars of 2026

Ashley Abels Avatar
Ashley Abels
Last Updated: Jan 28, 2026

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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

365 Organic Balsamic Vinegar of Modena Cover #TOP 1
365 Organic Balsamic Vinegar of Modena
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Colavita Balsamic Vinegar of Modena Cover #TOP 2
Colavita Balsamic Vinegar of Modena
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Pompeian Gourmet Balsamic Vinegar Cover #TOP 3
Pompeian Gourmet Balsamic Vinegar
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Balsamic Vinegars

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
Rich, delicious flavor
Good value for price
Versatile in recipes
Attractive glass bottle
Ideal for salad dressings
What We Don't Like
Not authentic Modena origin
#TOP 2

Colavita Balsamic Vinegar of Modena

69364
Colavita Balsamic Vinegar of Modena Cover
Colavita Balsamic Vinegar of Modena, 17 Ounce Bottle

Colavita Balsamic Vinegar of Modena is a product of Italy and has an acidity of 6%. It is perfect for slow-cooking foods, such as soups or beans, and can be used as a deglazing liquid for meat-based sauces. This vinegar is aged in wooden casks, creating a balanced flavor that combines sweetness and acidity.

What We Like
smooth flavor
fresh aroma
no acidic aftertaste
great value
sweet undertone

Pompeian Gourmet Balsamic Vinegar

203040
Pompeian Gourmet Balsamic Vinegar Cover
Pompeian Gourmet Balsamic Vinegar, Naturally Gluten-Free, 16 Fl Oz

Pompeian Gourmet Balsamic Vinegar is expertly crafted by The Olive Oil People and perfect for salad dressings, sauces, seafood and meat dishes. It is naturally gluten free and non-allergenic, and comes in a BPA-free bottle to protect and preserve the quality and taste. Customers love its organic, delicious flavor and its balanced taste.

What We Like
Great flavor and taste
Affordable price
Versatile for recipes
Convenient packaging
Healthy pantry staple
What We Don't Like
A bit runny
#TOP 4

Giuseppe Giusti - Gran Deposito Aceto Balsamico Di Giuseppe Giusti Moderna

Giuseppe Giusti - Gran Deposito Aceto Balsamico Di Giuseppe Giusti Moderna Cover
Giusti Italian Balsamic Vinegar of Modena IGP - 3 Gold Medals, Rich & Thick Gran Deposito Aceto Balsamico di Modena for Salads, Cheese & Finishing Touches, Made in Italy – 8.45 fl oz/250 ml -Pack of 1

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, complex flavor
Thick and sweet consistency
Perfect balance of sweetness and acidity
Excellent for dressings and drizzling
Premium Italian craftsmanship
What We Don't Like
Higher price point
#TOP 5

Soeos Chinkiang Black Rice Vinegar 550ml

Soeos Chinkiang Black Rice Vinegar 550ml Cover
Soeos Chinkiang Vinegar, 18.6 fl oz (550ml), Chinese Black , Traditional , Organic , Zhenjiang Xiangcu, Black Rice Vinegar | Condiment for Cooking Noodles, Braised Meat, Cold Appetizers

The Soeos Chinkiang Vinegar is a traditional Chinese black rice vinegar made from fermented grains like black sticky or glutinous rice. Its rich, tangy flavor with a subtle sweetness adds depth to your dishes, giving a unique malt and woody taste you won’t find in lighter rice vinegars. This vinegar is perfect for enhancing braised meats, noodles, and as a dipping sauce for dumplings or seafood, making your cooking more flavorful and versatile. It’s naturally aged until it reaches a deep dark color without any added coloring, ensuring you get a pure and authentic taste every time.

What We Like
High-quality flavor
Great for hot and sour soup
Versatile for cooking
Well-packaged delivery
Unique taste experience
What We Don't Like
Acquired taste for some
Flavor not for everyone
#TOP 6

Colavita White Balsamic Vinegar, 2 Count

Colavita White Balsamic Vinegar, 2 Count Cover
Colavita White Balsamic Vinegar, 2 Count(Pack of 1)

Colavita White Balsamic Vinegar comes in frustration-free packaging and offers a unique flavor profile that combines the rich taste of age-old balsamic vinegar with the light, fruity taste of white wine vinegar. It pairs well with a variety of foods, such as white meats, vegetables, salads, rice, and fish. Made from 100% wine, this vinegar has an acidity of 6% and is a non-GMO product that is naturally gluten-free.

What We Like
Good value for price
Mild, not too sharp flavor
Versatile for dressings and pickling
Lower carbs than dark balsamic
Convenient online purchase
What We Don't Like
Slightly sweeter than some prefer
Lacks strong grape note
#TOP 7

Colavita Balsamic Glaze, 29.5 Fl Oz

V33/6
32 OZ
Colavita Balsamic Glaze, 29.5 Fl Oz Cover
Colavita Balsamic Glaze - 32 Fl Oz - Tart and Sweet Flavor Perfect for Enhancing Salads, Pasta, Pizza, and More

Enhance your meals with the tart yet sweet flavor of Colavita Balsamic Glaze. Drizzle it on salads, pasta, pizza, and cheese or brush it on grilled meats, poultry, and fish. Unlike other glazes, it contains no trans fats or starches and is made from a smooth reduction of Balsamic Vinegar di Modena. Its silky smooth consistency makes it perfect for marinating or brushing.

What We Like
Excellent flavor profile
Versatile culinary uses
Reasonable price
High quality packaging
Smooth consistency
#TOP 8

Nonna Pia Classic Balsamic Glaze 8.45oz

Nonna Pia's
0710996000433
Nonna Pia Classic Balsamic Glaze 8.45oz Cover
Nonna Pia’s Classic Balsamic Glaze - IGP Certified Balsamic Vinegar Glaze from Modena - Thick, Velvety Balsamic Glaze Drizzle for Meat, Salads, Veggies - Non-GMO, Gluten-Free - 8.45oz (Pack of 1)

The Nonna Pia Balsamic Glaze offers a rich, velvety texture that enhances your meals with authentic Modena-inspired flavor. Made from carefully matured grape must and wine vinegar, this glaze contains no added thickeners or sweeteners, so you get a clean, natural taste that's also non-GMO and gluten-free. Its thick consistency makes it easy to drizzle over grilled meats, salads, veggies, and even fruits or cheeses, giving your dishes a delicious boost without extra effort. Whether you're cooking a quick family dinner or hosting guests, this glaze adds depth and boldness to your food in a simple, fuss-free way.

What We Like
Outstanding flavor
Perfect thickness and consistency
Versatile for many dishes
Balanced sweet and tangy taste
High quality ingredients
What We Don't Like
Slightly thinner than expected
Higher price for smaller bottle
#TOP 9

Whole Foods Market Aged Balsamic Vinegar of Modena 8.5oz

Whole Foods Market
Whole Foods Market Aged Balsamic Vinegar of Modena 8.5oz Cover
Whole Foods Market, Aged Balsamic Vinegar of Modena, 8.5 Fl Oz

The Whole Foods Balsamic Vinegar offers a rich and flavorful addition to your kitchen. This vinegar is carefully aged in oak barrels, which enhances its depth and complexity, making it ideal for drizzling over salads, vegetables, or even grilled meats. With 8.5 fluid ounces, you get a premium quantity that’s perfect for everyday use without worrying about running out quickly. The aged process gives it a smooth, woody taste that can elevate the flavor of your dishes, bringing a gourmet touch to simple meals. If you enjoy adding a tangy, sweet finish to your food, this vinegar is a great choice.

What We Like
Rich, enjoyable flavor
Good quality ingredients
Perfect for salads
Balanced, slightly sweet taste
Digestive health benefits
What We Don't Like
Somewhat pricy
#TOP 10

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
Thick and syrupy texture
Rich, well-balanced flavor
Great for drizzling or dipping
Comparable to premium brands
Excellent on salads and toast
What We Don't Like
Unusual thickness for some users
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 142,656 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 $14.14.

The balsamic vinegars are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of balsamic vinegars, including 365 by Whole Foods Market, COLAVITA, Pompeian, Giusti, Soeos. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

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

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand 365 by Whole Foods Market COLAVITA Pompeian Giusti Soeos COLAVITA COLAVITA Nonna Pia's Whole Foods Market COLAVITA
Units 16.9 Fluid Ounces 17 Fluid Ounces 16 Fluid Ounces 8.45 Fluid Ounces 18.6 Fluid Ounces 34 Fluid Ounces 29.5 Fluid Ounces 8.45 Fluid Ounces 8.5 Fluid Ounces 8.5 Fluid Ounces
Item Form Syrup Liquid Liquid Balsamic Vinegar Liquid Liquid Liquid Liquid Liquid Liquid
Flavor Organic Balsamic Vinegar Balsamic Balsamic Aged Balsamic Vinegar of Modena Chinkiang Black Vinegar White Wine White Balsamic Vinegar Balsamic Balsamic Balsamic Vinegar
Liquid Volume 16.9 Fluid Ounces 500 Milliliters 16 Fluid Ounces 8.45 Fluid Ounces 18.6 Fluid Ounces 34 Fluid Ounces 32 Fluid Ounces 8.45 Fluid Ounces 8.5 Fluid Ounces 8.5 Fluid Ounces
Recommended Uses For Product salad dressings, marinades, reductions, flavor enhancer for cooked dishes Salad dressings, slow-cooked foods, deglazing, marinades - PAIR WITH: Fresh pasta such as ravioli, beef, or fresh fruit., soft cheese Cooking Salad dressings, Marinades, Sauces, Glazing meats, Drizzling over vegetables and fruits, White meat, White sauces, Fish, Rice Food - Salad dressings, marinades, flavor enhancer for cooked dishes Salad Dressing, Marinade, Flavor Enhancer for Dishes and Cheeses
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 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.8
Where to Buy