Deep in the heartland of Northern Italy lies Emilia Romagna, a region steeped in history and renowned for its culinary delights. Rich in cultural and food traditions, it’s the place to indulge in fine, quality food and drink. Yet beyond its famed Prosciutto di Parma and Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, Emilia Romagna hides another jewel – the Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale di Reggio Emilia, or Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Reggio Emilia. This region is home to some of Italy’s finest balsamic vinegar producers.
Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale is made from cooked grape must, aged through a long aging process in wooden casks, which gives it a complex, sweet, and aromatic profile, unlike the often more diluted commercial-grade balsamic vinegars readily available in supermarkets. The crafting process of this delicacy is meticulous and steeped in tradition, characteristics that reflect the spirit of Emilia Romagna itself.
Here is a list of the finest Aceto Balsamico di Reggio Emilia Producers you should not miss when visiting Parma.
1. Acetaia San Giacomo:
Located in Novellara, a village in the Reggio Emilia province, Acetaia San Giacomo is a must-visit. The owner, Andrea Bezzechi, is one of the most respected balsamic vinegar masters, and will immerse you in the refined world of traditional balsamic vinegar production. Visitors can tour the acetaia, witness the painstaking process of the balsamic vinegar making and, of course, sample the beautifully matured elixir.
2. Cavalli Acetaia:
Located in Scandiano, near Parma, the Cavalli family has been producing traditional balsamic vinegar for centuries. Visitors can tour the historic cellars packed with barrels dating back to the 1800s, and learn about the detailed process that goes into producing their richly flavored, aromatic vinegar. Tastings are complemented by other local products such as cheeses and cured meats.
3. Acetaia Boni Romano:
In the charming municipality of Cavriago, deep among the Reggiano hills, you will find the family-run Acetaia Boni Romano. Here, the Boni family shares their passion for the ancient tradition of vinegar-making. Visitors are treated to a guided tour of the vinegar loft, and a tasting that involves three different ages of Balsamic Vinegar.
4. Acetaia Claudia:
Situated in the foothills of Reggio Emilia, Acetaia Claudia showcases the charm of family-run vinegar production in Italy. You can take a leisurely trip around their vinegar loft, see where the magic happens, and expand your knowledge about vinegar aging process.
Each of these producers offer something unique, and visiting them offers not only an insight into the traditional process of creating Aceto Balsamico di Reggio Emilia, but also provides a visceral connection to the land, the tradition, and the people behind this remarkable product.
Visiting these Aceto Balsamico di Reggio Emilia producers is a fascinating addition to a stay in Parma, providing a deeper appreciation of Emilia Romagna’s culinary culture, and a deeper understanding of the region’s gastronomic heritage. You get to sip, savour, and appreciate what truly sets this vinegar apart from the rest – it’s not just a culinary experience, but a journey into the heart of Emilia Romagna.