Acetaia Bellei 'Gold Bell' IGP ABM - Aged 12 Years, 250 mL

Two of my passions are food and history. One of the reasons I like wine is that it gives you an interface with times past and it develops character from age. That's true of balsamic vinegar, which is the literal manifestation of two of my passions in one form. Balsamic vinegar must pass many stringent quality and authenticity criteria before it earns the name.Given my current efforts to eat more wholesome and authentic foods, it made sense for me to make this purchase. Yes, it is a bit of an outlay, but the payoff is that the flavors are deep and subtle and they can elevate many dishes, enliven even a simple repast such as cheese or fruit and generally lend a level of class and polish to your culinary efforts.Given its distinct flavor, you don't have to use much, so it's not as expensive as it initially seems. Furthermore, I'd rather buy something that's going to leave an impression and elevate the occasion of my meal rather than settle upon a dreary, pedestrian experience. If we literally are what we eat, then I'd rather be made of this than some supermarket dreck.As to its authenticity, its ingredient panel lists both grape must (a concentrate made from whole grapes--including skins and seeds) as well as red wine vinegar. Therefore, given that the must is the first ingredient listed, it is the most plentiful. If I had to guess, I'd say it's at least 50% must, which technically means that it's not true balsamic, which is 100% must.However, it's still quite good and a 100% must vinegar would be expensive. There are many here on Amazon for $100 or more.

This product tastes great and I loved it, BUT there is a warning on the label stating it contains lead known to cause cancer!! That is something that, as a heart transplant recipient, I want and need to know!! Not happy.

IT REALLY WASN'T WHAT I THOUGHT I WAS ORDERING. I WANTED MORE OF GLAZE AND ALSO THERE WAS TAG ATTACHED THAT SAID "CONTAINS LEAD AND THIS PRODUCT MIGHT CAUSE CANCER' SO KNOW I AM DO NOT WANT TO USE IT.

gave it as a gift. I think he liked it

Fantastic balsamic that's worth every penny, we won't buy anything else. I've made roasted balsamic beets using this vinegar, as well as created a glaze to dress ice cream and stone fruit. We plan to include it in holiday gift baskets this year.