Traditionally made balsamic vinegar is one of the most luxurious and rare … and it’s available in the heart of Prescott Valley
Summer is in full force, which means longer days, lingering sunshine, and free time best spent outside. If you’re anything like us, you’re itching to book a trip overseas where you can soak up all the summer sun and explore international waters. However, for many, travel is still not an option.
Let us take you on a trip to Modena, Italy, from the comfort of your favorite local spot, Rafter Eleven.
For those of you who are wanderlust adventure seekers, Modena is known for its exceptionally fast cars (like Ferrari and Lamborghini) and its rich opera heritage. Cars and culture aside, what draws us to Modena is its barrel-aged balsamic vinegar. Truly authentic balsamic vinegar comes only from Reggio Emilia and Modena in Italy, and is created using traditional methods overseen by a certification agency.
The traditional method of making balsamic vinegar begins with taking whole pressed grapes and cooking them over an open flame, creating a concentrate that will be left to ferment naturally for no less than twelve years in aging barrels. This lengthy aging process is what sets balsamic vinegar apart from what is found on grocery shelves and in supermarket aisles.
The traditional-style balsamic vinegar at Rafter Eleven is aged for eighteen years, as are all the dark balsamics featured in our store. The white balsamic vinegar is aged for a slightly shorter duration—twelve years—giving it a vivacious, bright flavor profile which is then infused with natural fruit like Sicilian lemons or wild blueberries.
With twenty-five different naturally infused balsamic vinegars to choose from, you’ll surely find a palate-pleasing flavor that transports you back to Modena.
Balsamic vinegar is considered some of the world’s most luxurious and rare, making it a perfect gift you can give to a friend (or keep for yourself!). In fact, in the Middle Ages, giving the gift of aged balsamic vinegar was commonplace when meeting with the Pope or any form of royalty, as showing up empty-handed was not an option. Authentic balsamic vinegar became a popular present for newlyweds, which is still a tradition for contemporary families.
Whether you’re visiting today’s royalty, attending a wedding, or looking to freshen up your own pantry, traditionally made balsamic vinegar is always a unique and useful gift that will delight the recipient to no end.
Although most of us won’t be traveling to Italy anytime soon, we can at least get a taste of what Modena has to offer, right here in Prescott Valley.
Rafter Eleven is at 2985 N. Centre Court, in Prescott Valley. For more information call 928.227.2050 or visit www.raftereleven.com.