Quick Summary: When looking for the best balsamic vinegar that offers the best balsamic vinegar flavor that is made in small, numbered batches, we picked MiaBella Balsamic Vinegar. This vinegar is aged for at least 18 years in oak and juniper barrels. Its Trebbiano grapes come directly from the lush hills of Modena. MiaBella does not add any sugars, caramels, flavors, or preservatives to their balsamic vinegar. The price of the MiaBella stays within anyone’s budget while offering a certified authentic and unique vinegar. This is not the average balsamic vinegar that you find on your grocery store shelves.
If you are tired of using the same old regular vinegar and want to introduce new flavors in your dishes then let the best Balsamic vinegar do the trick for you. Lately, Balsamic vinegar has attained a sort of cult following in the culinary arena due to its unique flavor and versatility.
Originated from Italy, this vinegar takes more than 12 years to come into its true form. After going through special procedures of cooking and fermentation, this vinegar develops a thick, saucy consistency.
Since it is made from grapes, therefore, it is sweet in taste and a treat for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Its balanced sour taste makes it a perfect item to use for savory dishes. Meat, cheese, pasta, salads, ice cream, brownies, trifle, fruits, and a whole lot of other items can be paired with balsamic vinegar to give an enriched taste and flavor.
Once you have opened the bottle of balsamic vinegar, you dot have to worry about it getting stale or spoiled as it has special properties that make it last longer. Another thing which goes in the favor of this vinegar is its price range.
You might wonder by looking at its exquisite packaging and unique characteristics that this product will be expensive, however, that is not true.
Despite all of its high quality features, a bottle of organic balsamic vinegar is pretty low in terms of price.
In order to make your decision an easier one, we’ve reviewed several vinegar brands on the market and come up with a list of the best balsamic vinegar so that you can treat yourself and your loved ones to delicious and yummy food and snacks.
Quick Navigation:
- 10 Best Balsamic Vinegars Comparison
- Reviews of 10 Top Balsamic Vinegars
- How to choose the Best Balsamic Vinegar
- Conclusion
10 Best Balsamic Vinegars Comparison
1. MiaBella Balsamic Vinegar (Best overall)The secret ingredient of every chef-this Italian balsamic vinegar will satisfy your taste buds by bringing new flavors to your food. Meat, cheese, salad, fish, or ice cream-there is nothing this vinegar can’t work with. | Read Our Review |
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2. Villa Ronzan Balsamic Vinegar of Modena (Best Budget)This fine quality vinegar is made to last long and is aged at least a minimum of 25 years. Produced with only the best natural products, this vinegar is ideal to pair with meat, cheese, fish, salads, and desserts. | Read Our Review |
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3. Simple Girl Organic Balsamic VinaigretteCreated with organic ingredients Simple Girl’s balsamic vinegar is free from artificial coloring and preservatives. Since it is carb and gluten-free, hence it can be easily used as vinaigrette, dipping sauce etc. | Read Our Review |
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4. Colavita White Balsamic VinegarWith its unique color and advanced taste, Colavita’s white balsamic vinegar is just what you need to make a dish extra special. This vinegar is perfect to use for white meat, white sauce, salads etc. | Read Our Review |
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5. Ellora Farms Balsamic VinegarEllora Farms Balsamic vinegar is an authentic product made from the finest quality of grapes. This vinegar is loaded with multiple health benefits and helps in reducing cholesterol and weight. | Read Our Review |
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6. QO Organic Thick Aged Balsamic VinegarQO balsamic vinegar comes in a sleek, heavy bottom glass bottom that contains 250ml of product. It is available with three different flavor infusions of citrus, hot chili, and raspberry. | Read Our Review |
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7. Giuseppe Giusti Gran Deposito Aceto Balsamico VinegarArtisan Italian Balsamic Wine Vinegar With its thick texture and undefined, subtle taste-this vinegar has nothing but the best taste to offer to you. This vinegar is produced from sun dried grapes and can be used with any sort of dish. | Read Our Review |
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8. Villa Manodori Balsamic VinegarUplift the quality and taste of your salads with Villa Manodori’s balsamic vinegar. Just a drizzle and sprinkle of this vinegar is sufficient to enhance the flavors of your appetizers and even the main course. | Read Our Review |
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9. Colavita Balsamic Glace VinegarColavita’s balsamic glaze is actually a reduction of balsamic vinegar and thus has a rich, smooth texture to it. You can use it as a grilling sauce or sprinkle it lightly on salads and pasta. | Read Our Review |
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10. Mantova Organic Flavored Balsamic VinegarTreat yourself with sweeter desserts and delicious salads through generous use of Mantova’s balsamic vinegar. This vinegar is available in different fruity flavors and has an acidity level of only 6%. | Read Our Review |
Reviews of 10 Top Balsamic Vinegars
To find the Best Balsamic Vinegars brand, we looked closely at the reviews and rating from consumers and experts. From all the brands we reviewed, these seven stood out to us for their quality, taste, and price.
Best Overall
1. MiaBella Balsamic Vinegar
What You Will Love: MiaBella Balsamic Vinegar is made with 100 percent grape must and does not contain preservatives. MiaBella is a real balsamic vinegar that is made in small batches for a unique taste and flavor.
All bottles are numbered and signed. This vinegar is aged for up to 18 years in barrels that are made of oak and juniper. It is made from 100 percent Trebbiano grape must that comes directly from the hills of Modena, Italy.
MiaBella Balsamic Vinegar does not add any sugars, caramels, flavors, or preservatives. This vinegar is in its most natural state and flavor. It is a rich, deep, brown syrup that is perfectly balanced.
This is so diverse it can be used on meat, cheese, fish, salads, strawberries, or even vanilla ice cream. MiaBella Foods is committed to providing the highest quality ingredients so that all customers receive the perfect gift.
This centuries-old recipe is now widely available to you any time you want to purchase it. MiaBella Balsamic Vinegar traditional is made from a reduction of cooked Trebbiano grape juice, known as grape must, and it tastes nothing like the balsamic vinegar you find on your grocery store shelves. It dates all the way back to the Middle ages and comes from the Northern regions of Italy.
Pros:
- Made in small batches for unique taste
- No preservatives
Cons:
- Reviews state that it has a strong vinegar taste
Best Budget
2. Villa Ronzan Balsamic Vinegar of Modena Traditional 25 year old DOP certified
What You Will Love: The Balsamic Guy’s Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena is guaranteed by the Consortium of traditional balsamic vinegar producers in Modena, Italy.
The Balsamic Guy’s traditional has real balsamic vinegar taste. It has been tasted by a panel of experts that have authorized its sale as true balsamic vinegar.
Villa Ronzan Balsamic Vinegar has held up to the highest standards for smell, taste and visual elements. Only then can it receive a numbered seal indicating that the product is of the highest quality.
Thisnd is made from cooked grapes and left to age for at least 25 years in a barrel made from wood. This guarantees that you are receiving authentic traditional balsamic vinegar.
This is the oldest traditional vinegar, known more commonly as extra Vecchio. It is the perfect complement to all kinds of food, such as cheese, fish, meat, vegetables, and even dessert. Villa Ronzan Balsamic Vinegar is naturally low in calories and full of minerals and antioxidants.
The Balsamic Guy guarantees this will be the best balsamic vinegar you ever taste. If you are not completely satisfied, he will issue you a full refund. It is the perfect gift. It comes in a gift box with its exclusive bottle, pourer, and informational recipe book.
Pros:
- Guaranteed authentic
- 100 percent satisfaction guarantee
Cons:
- Very expensive,
- especially when compared to other similar products
Best Balsamic Vinegar for Salad Dressings
3. Simple Girl Organic Balsamic Vinaigrette 12 oz – Low Sugar Salad Dressing and Marinade
What You Will Love: Simple Girl Balsamic Vinaigrette is one you can feel good about using because it is organic and free of preservatives.
Simple Girl Organic Balsamic Vinaigrette is a completely guilt free way to add some flavor to your next salad.
This is a certified organic vinaigrette that includes 100 percent organic balsamic vinegar from Modena, organic spices and organic lemon juice. All ingredients are gluten free.
Simple Girl Organic Balsamic is a vinaigrette is a dressing that you can feel good about using, as it is perfect for all diets, including Keto and Weight Watchers. It has low sugar at only two grams per serving.
It is naturally sweetened by the organic grape must and a trace amount, less than two percent, of organic stevia leaf extract. This healthy vinegar salad dressing is low in calories and carbs, with only 10 calories and two grams of carbs per serving.
It does not contain any animal products so it is perfect for vegans and vegetarians. It does not contain preservatives or MSG. There is nothing artificial about this vinaigrette. Simple Girl Organic Balsamic Vinagar does not have artificial colors or sweeteners. It has a full natural flavor that is the perfect marinade for meat, fish, or tofu.
Pros:
- 100 percent organic
- No artificial sweeteners
Cons:
- Must be refrigerated
- Many reviews complained about the taste
Best White Balsamic Vinegar
4. Colavita White Balsamic Vinegar, 17 Ounce
What You Will Love: Colavita White Balsamic Vinegar offers the uniqueness of traditional balsamic vinegar but with a fruity white wine taste.
Colavita Whitedddd is a product of Italy and brings to you all the complexity of balsamic vinegar without color and with a fruitiness you will not find in other balsamic vinegars.
Colavita is made with wine and has an acidity level of six percent. It does not contain GMOs. It is certified as a non GMO product and has a certificate number.
It is excellent paired with white meats, vegetables, salads, fish, and rice. Is it a perfect addition to any white sauce.
Colavita White Balsamic Vinegar is a perfect compliment to sautéed Brussels sprouts and parmesan cheese. This is an excellent vinegar for summer berries or mixed with extra virgin olive oil on a green salad.
It can be added to any picnic salad like roasted corn and tomatoes with fresh mozzarella. There is no limit to all the foods you can add this white vinegar too.
Pros:
- Has a fruity white wine taste
- A much lighter vinegar than a traditional balsamic
Cons:
- Some feel this is not an authentic
Best Pure Balsamic Vinegar
5. Ellora Farms Balsamic Vinegar in glass spray bottle
What You Will Love: Ellora Farms Pure Balsamic Vinegar is from Crete, Greece and it is 100 percent natural. Ellora Farms is aged for six months in a barrel made of oak and creates a sweet and sour flavor.
This is a 100 percent natural product that does not have any added colors or sweeteners. This comes in a spray that allows you to control your portions.
This spray bottle is scientifically designed for this type of oil so it won’t clog. Ellora Farms Balsamic Vinegar comes straight from the vineyards in Crete, Greece.
It is made with 100 percent grape must and it is a 100 percent natural product. There are no colors, caramel, sulfites, or preservatives.
It pairs perfectly with salad, ice cream, mussels, fruit, vegetables, and various cheeses. There is no fat added to this, so this can be a part of a healthy diet. This is low calorie and can help with digestion and aid in weight loss.
There are no animal products so those who are vegan and vegetarian can enjoy this. Ellora Farms Balsamic Vinegar has a low glycemic index and helps improve circulation and overall healthy skin.
Pros:
- It is a 100 percent natural product
- There are no colors, sulfites or preservatives
Cons:
- The bottle cannot be opened, or refilled
Best Aged Balsamic Vinegar
6. QO Organic Thick Aged Balsamic Vinegar of Modena
What You Will Love: QO Organic Thick Aged Balsamic Vinegar is a thick silk Balsamic Vinegar from Modena.
The QO Organic Thick Aged Balsamic Vinegar was produced and bottled in Modena, Italy. It is USDA organic certified.
It is a thick and dense silky organic aged balsamic vinegar of Modena. It is full bodied and well balanced. It is refined in barrels made of wood. It has an acidity of four percent.
It does not have added sugar or caramel. It does not have added colors, thickening agents, or preservatives. It come infused with three flavors, citrus, hot chili, or raspberry.
QO Organic Thick Aged Balsamic Vinegar is made in small batches and comes in a beautiful glass bottle. It can be paired with all kinds of foods including meat, ice cream, cheese, fruit, and salads.
It can be used in marinades. It should be kept away from direct heat, sunlight, and should not be stored in the refrigerator.
Pros:
- Comes packaged in a beautiful glass bottle
- No added colors or preservatives
Cons:
- There are reviews that say this vinegar is incredibly sweet
- Reviews also state that it is thin
Best Balsamic Wine Vinegar
7. Guiseppe Giusti – Gran Deposito Aceto Balsamico Di Giuseppe Giusti Moderna
What You Will Love: The Guiseppe Giusti Italian Balsamic Wine Vinegar is crafted from the old favorite recipe of Riccardo Giusti.
The Guiseppe Giusti Gran Deposito brand is a gourmet balsamic that is a deep color of brown with a velvety smooth texture. It is an aromatic blend that has notes of jam, fruit, honey and vanilla.
It pairs well with pasta, beef, cheese, and fruit. It is made from a grape must that comes from sun dried grapes and aged vinegar. It is aged in barrels and perfected with age.
Traditional balsamic comes from the regions of Modena or Reggio Emilia and it is produced from Lambrusco or Trebbiano grapes. The Guiseppe Giusti balsamic wine vinegar is aged in barrels that are special and have been in the Gusti family for decades.
The barrels of crafted from various woods for all the steps in the process. The vinegar takes on the flavors of the casks. After at least 12 years, the vinegar is ready. Once it reached the highest standards is the vinegar ready to be bottle and sealed.
The Guiseppe Giusti company was founded in 1605 and is the oldest producer of vinegar in the world. They are constantly changing to adapt to changes to technology and aim to make the environment a sustainable place.
It is beneficial to your health. Guiseppe Giusti balsamic wine vinegar has been shown to lower cholesterol, help digestion, improves circulation, and can aid in weight loss. It can also help reduce high blood pressure and promotes healthy skin.
Pros:
- The oldest producer of vinegar
Cons:
- It contains sulfites
Best for Balanced Taste
8. Villa Manodori Balsamic Vinegar
What You Will Love: Villa Manodori’s balsamic vinegar is not like ordinary supermarket balsamic vinegar, in fact just by looking at the sleek glass bottle of this vinegar, you can realize that it is a high-quality item. With its balanced taste of sweet and sour, this vinegar will instantly add layers of flavors to your salads.
Sprinkle this vinegar over your boring green salad or other dishes and experience an enhanced flavor in every single bite.
One of the most unique features of this balsamic vinegar is that it does not rot over time, rather it lasts long. This quality makes it a staple product for every household.
Unlike regular kinds of vinegar, this one is different in its texture. The thick consistency of this vinegar with its well-balanced taste lets it add quality and taste to every type of salad.
Despite the fact that this product is exemplary in its quality, still, Villa Manodori Balsamic Vinegar has managed to attract the attention of every foodie mainly because it is extremely budget-friendly. With just 45$ you get the best condiment that lasts long.
Pros:
- Has thick consistency
- Has balanced taste
- Budget-friendly
Cons:
- Comes in a delicate wine bottle
Best for Glazing Sauce
9. Colavita Balsamic Glace (Glaze), 29.5 Ounce
What You Will Love: Colavita Balsamic Vinegar with 4%acidity level and sweet flavors is a multi-purpose item. This vinegar is free from trans-fat and thus is perfect to have with every sort of dish. Take your home-cooked food a notch up with just a drizzle of Colavita Balsamic vinegar.
This vinegar has been given a glaze-like, saucy, and thick texture and that is through its unique production process. As a result, it is perfect for marinating meat like fish, chicken, or beef.
Colavita’s balsamic vinegar is not simplistic in its taste and flavor. Just one bite of this vinegar will instantly fill your mouth with a unique sweet taste. Since it can enhance the sweetness of a dish, therefore it can be used with ice cream and other desserts.
This vinegar is actually a balsamic reduction which is why it has a different consistency and taste as compared to other vinegar. Moreover, it is trans-fat free and gluten-free which makes it good for health.
Pros:
- Free from gluten and trans-fat
- Can be used on multiple dishes
- Has thick, glaze-like consistency
Cons:
- Not for every budget
Best Balsamic Vinegar Pack
10. Mantova Organic Flavored Balsamic Vinegar of Modena
What You Will Love: Certified by USDA, this Italian balsamic vinegar will instantly transform regular dishes into something special. The sweetness and natural flavors of fig, pear, pomegranate, and raspberry make this vinegar the best condiment to serve with and every type of dish.
Available in rich, fruity, sweet flavors-this vinegar will uplift the taste of your salads, desserts, etc. This flavorful pack is one of the best balsamic vinegars packs in the market.
This vinegar can be a perfect addition to appetizers like salads and increases the intensity and taste of every single ingredient used in salads. You can use it to make salad dressing, vinaigrette etc.
Mantova’s balsamic vinegar is made from natural and organic ingredients which is why it has a darker, strong color. Moreover, it has the perfect taste and is not overpowering in flavors because it has an acidity level of 6%.
Mantova’s balsamic vinegar is not meant to be served with a single dish, instead, it improves the taste of every sort of dish you use it with. The sweet flavor of this vinegar is perfect and ideal to use with brownies, ice creams, or even cocktails.
Pros:
- Has 6% acidity level
- Available in different fruity flavors
- Suitable to use with various dishes
Cons:
- Not thick in consistency
How to choose the Best Balsamic Vinegar?
When looking for the best balsamic vinegars, there are some specific qualities that you should look for in your vinegar.
If you are ordering it online, you will not be able to taste it, so you will have to be mindful of other aspects of balsamic vinegar.
Versatility
Balsamic vinegar has been around for centuries. There is an art of crafting the best you can find. It is aged in special barrels for years before being a high enough quality to share with the public.
The best balsamic vinegars enhance any meal you are preparing, or any food you would like to eat.
You should be able to pair your balsamic with meat, cheese, fish, vegetables, salad, and even desserts, like ice cream. You want a balsamic that will enhance, not overpower your food.
Vinegar type
There are different types of balsamic vinegar. Before you shop, you should know the difference between them and which you one prefer.
You may have to try them all to find the right one for you. There is traditional, commercial grade and condiment grade balsamic vinegar. Within each grade, there are some variations.
It is important that you know which of these grades you prefer so that you can find the balsamic vinegar that you will like best.
Quality
When looking for an authentic balsamic vinegar, quality is important. You want to ensure your product is crafted with the highest quality grapes.
You want to make sure that they are cared for properly and do not come into contact with chemicals or additives. You want to make sure that the process used to cook and age the grapes is also high quality.
You want the best wood casks to be used to age the balsamic vinegar. Every step along the way matters. You do not want a step to be missed or put to the side because every one makes an impact on the taste and quality of the balsamic vinegar.
Natural ingredients
Balsamic vinegar by nature is a product that is low in sugar, low in fat, and low in carbs. There is no real reason why anything needs to be added to an authentic balsamic vinegar.
Look for one that does not have added color, caramel, or preservatives. Your balsamic vinegar should not have added sugar.
A true balsamic vinegar can stand on its own without any additional flavorings, so there is no need to add anything else. Make sure the one you pick does not contain MSG.
Be aware that some vinegars contain sulfites. If you are sensitive to them, or do not want them in your balsamic, be sure to read the label and make sure there are no sulfites in the one you select.
Taste
You are going to add balsamic vinegar to your food. It will be in a sauce, a marinade, or a vinaigrette. You could choose to dip bread in it. You make pour it over top of a salad. Whatever you plan to do with it, it will involve food.
You do not want a balsamic vinegar that adds too much of a tangy acidic taste to your food.
Be sure you know what your balsamic vinegar tastes like before you pour it all over your food. If you are not used to an authentic, you should try a little bit of it to ensure that you are going to like it.
It may not taste like the balsamic vinegar that you are used to buying on your grocery shelves.
Price
Price should always be a consideration in which product you choose. It does not have to be the only consideration, or that one that is the deciding factor for which one you purchase.
A higher price tag does not mean better quality. Sometimes, it does and sometimes, it does not.
You need to be aware of the price, but know that it may not be an indicator of taste. A higher price tag could indicate higher quality. Just beware of the product you are buying.
Conclusion
All in all, the best balsamic vinegar are those that are made from high-quality ingredients and aged for a minimum of 12 years.
While there are many expensive brands on the market, you don’t necessarily have to spend a lot of money to get good-quality vinegar.
Our top picks are all reasonably priced and widely available. When shopping for balsamic vinegar, be sure to check the label to make sure it is made from 100% grape must.
And finally, our buying guide will help you determine the qualities of an ideal balsamic vinegar so that you can choose the best one for your needs.