A Taste of Italy: Lunch with Aceto Balsamico di Modena at The Vancouver Club

I recently had the pleasure of spending an afternoon at The Vancouver Club for a special lunch centered around one of Italy’s most famous exports: Aceto Balsamico di Modena. While many of us have a bottle of balsamic vinegar in our pantry, there is a massive difference between the generic stuff and the authentic product protected by the Consortium.

This event was a great opportunity to appreciate the history and craft behind the bottle. It was about understanding the culture of Emilia-Romagna, a region in Italy known for its incredible food and passion.

One of the highlights of the event was the premiere of a short film titled Modena Balsamic Genius. Directed by Carlo Guttadauro, the film used contemporary dance to tell the story of Modena.

It was a beautiful way to show how this vinegar balances centuries of tradition with a modern, creative spirit. The film is actually going on an international tour through 2026, stopping in places like the US, Germany, and Belgium, to share this artistic view of Modena with the world.

The Consortium also shared some big news that will make shopping for quality vinegar much easier starting in 2025. They are introducing a new category called “Riserva.”

Until now, you generally had the standard Aceto Balsamico di Modena PGI (aged between 60 days and 3 years) and the “Invecchiato” (aged 3 to 5 years). The new “Riserva” label is strictly for vinegar aged for more than five years in wooden barrels.

This is a helpful update. It clarifies the different levels of aging so you know exactly what you are getting. The Riserva offers a complex mix of sweetness and freshness that lingers on the tongue. It represents the top tier of their production, and having that clear label will help consumers find that specific quality.

Authentic Aceto Balsamico di Modena is made exclusively in the provinces of Modena and Reggio Emilia. Yet, 93% of the 95 million liters produced annually is exported to over 130 countries. It is a huge part of Italian culture that has found a home in kitchens all over the world.

Next time you are at the store, look for the PGI logo. It guarantees the product comes from that specific region and follows strict quality rules.