05/28/2023
My favorite Anthony Bourdain episode was on the region of Emilia Romagna, Italy. In this show he visited a small, family-run producer of aceto balsamico (balsamic vinegar). The Pedroni family has been producing this since 1862.
Seeing that, I HAD to go there when I was with friends in Emilia Romagna. It was so worth it that we had lunch AND dinner there.
Good thing we had a designated driver. Our waiter brought three bottles of grappa and liqueur to our table. He said ‘I’ll just leave these here for you to taste’. BIG mistake! We did some damage to those bottles. I don’t remember which one was best.
Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale di Modena is made from crushed grapes left over from the wine making process. It’s aged a minimum of 12 years. Balsamico is thick and syrupy, with a rich sweetness and mellow tartness. It’s otherworldly…delicious on Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, vanilla gelato, or pretty much anything.
Pedroni is a short drive into the countryside just outside of Modena. Or, if you really want to go in style, use their heliport! Either way, I highly recommend a visit.
