Giusti Balsamic – How to Choose

Family Reserves - Small Bottles with Red Wax

The three exquisite small bottles with rope and red wax, pictured above, are a part of a special series dedicated to the local and ongoing Modenese custom of bottling and gifting small quantities that were taken from Giusti’s family reserve. 

The aromas of plum jam intertwine with the sweet hints of vanilla, creating a delicate and enveloping aromatic bouquet. Drizzle or place a drop or two over risotto, fresh pasta, vegetable soups, eggs, fresh and matured cheeses, white and red meats, fresh fruit salad and desserts.

Historical Collection - Labeled with Medals

Five Balsamic Vinegars of Modena are classified by a series of medals and come in either a champagne bottle shape or a cubical shape. They begin as a light, fragrant, acidic balsamic and grow increasingly flavourful and rich with each medal. 

1 Silver Medal (white with silver)
Characterized by a rich perfume and an agreeable and rounded acidity, this is an aromatic Balsamic Vinegar enhancing the flavours of any dish thanks to its intensity. Both the 1 Silver Medal and the 2 Gold Medals balsamics are recommended for vinaigrettes, marinades, dipping or salad dressings. They may also be used to prepare caramelized onions.

2 Gold Medals (white with gold)
This balsamic has a medium density with an optimal balance between sweet and sour. It is characterized by overtones of mature fruits, licorice and black pepper. It is the perect balsamic to always have in your pantry. As mentioned above, it is recommended for use in vinaigrettes, marinades, dipping or salad dressings. It may also be used to prepare caramelized onions or to replace a soy sauce. 

3 Gold Medals (red)
Based on an old recipe dating back to the beginning of the 20th century, this balsamic is obtained from sweet, sundried grapes and is aged in oak barrels. The aromas and flavours of plum jam and red fruits intertwine with hints of honey and vanilla in a considerably dense and sweet product. It is perfect as a fresh dressing for various savoury or sweet dishes. Ideal for starters such as a bruschetta, on fresh pasta with a creamy cheese sauce, on a caprese salad, with white meat, in scrambled eggs or with fresh fruits.

4 Gold Medals (Greenish Yellow) –Winner of Great Taste Award 2025 
Aged in acacia barrels, it has a deeply aromatic flavour with scents of ripe fruits accompanied by notes of tobacco, roasted coffee and hints of wood and honey. It is the creamiest and sweetest balsamic of the Giusti Historical Collection. Creamy, syrupy and mildly peppery with a smokey, honey aftertaste. Enjoy on aged cheeses, filled pasta, creamy soup, red meat and ice cream. It can also replace BBQ sauce on ribs or teriyaki sauce in Asian dishes.

5 Gold Medals (white with red stripe)
This elixir of robust body and concentration is distinguished by its extraordinary complexity and rich bouquet of aromas. The pride and joy of Giusti, it has notes of black cherries, sweet spices and the lingering fragrance of ancient woods. Ideal for tortelloni with ricotta and spinach or risotto with Parmesan cream sauce. Ecellent on meat filets, sliced steaks or cold cuts. Enjoy in on omelet, on strawberries, vanilla ice cream or in a cocktail.

Gourmet Condiments - Flavoured

We also carry Giusti’s innovative condiments who have added flavours like black truffle, raspberry juice and fig purée to their balsamic.

Truffle + 3 Gold Medals Balsamic
The dehydrated black truffle is infused within wooden casks containing Balsamic Vinegar until there is a complete balance of flavours. An excellent choice for meat, mushrooms and pasta. Also delicious in an omelet.

Raspberry Juice + 3 Gold Medal Balsamic 
The rich bouquet and flavours of the Giusti 3 Gold Medals Balsamic Vinegar is enriched with the infusion of raspberries for over 6 months in oak barrels, creating a special thick, sweet and smooth condiment. Delicious on cheesecake, ice cream, chocolate desserts, pork, lamb, cocktails and salads.

Fig Purée + 3 gold medal balsamic
This condiment is obtained from the Balsamic Vinegar of Modena 3 Gold Medals and fig purée which are infused together over a 6-month period in oak casks. Ideal for cheese, yogurt, cooked ham, steak, salads and soft, creamy desserts. 

Saba = Cooked Grape Must
Cooked grape must, called Saba, is dense and dark brown with a caramelized flavour. It is also the main and most important ingredient for the production of Balsamic Vinegar of Modena. Already in use at the time of the ancient Romans, it is obtained by cooking must of local grapes in open air for many hours and then reduced down to a sweet and dense syrup. Appreciated especially by children, Saba is a versatile and natural sweetener, enhancing various ingredients and recipes. It can replace maple syrup, honey or refined sugar and is lovely with cheese, yogurt and desserts.

White Condiment – Winner of Great Taste 2025!
The Giusti White Condiment is obtained from the soft pressing of Trebbiano grapes, from which a particularly sweet juice is obtained. This is then combined with high quality white wine vinegars and aged in French oak and ash wooden barrels. This condiment is clear, delicate and light with sweet, floral, citrusy notes. Use with dressings, marinades, cocktails, salades, fresh fruit, raw seafood, ceviche and Asian foods.