Day 30 - The Olive Oil Journey

Balsamic, like Olive Oil, has rich family history and has definitely caught my eye. I still don't understand this but apparently brides would traditionally bring balsamic that has been aging for the entirety of their life to the groom's family as a gift. If you know this concept lmk I'd be happy to hear. And update this with more accurate info.

Day 30

Modena, Italy | November 24th, 2022

I'm staying 0.0 KM from city center, so 8am hits and I get the alarm that's been going off at 8am in Modena probably for the past 500-1000 years: GONG - that was loud.

The early morning was spent cleaning and writing my blog but by the time I got my clothing ready at 9:50, the other Airbnb occupant decided it was shower time, and leaving any later would make me late for the 10:45am tour.

I decide to abandon the shower, and arrive at the Museo del Balsamico (Traditional Balsamic Vinegar Museum) at 10:55am.

0-2 on the morning.

And for some more context the museum is in a neighboring town about 25 minutes away from the parking garage, and on the way it felt similar to driving through any wine region with wineries back to back - except instead of wine, Acetaia del Balsmico (tasting and storage rooms of balsamic). I was such a rookie - knew nothing about the balsamic process before walking in.

I never buy anything in gift shops - but I knew it was a great visit because I bought a book. And even on top of that knowing I'd have to lug that around the next 3 weeks - they were super educational.

That was the first of about 7-10 visits (hard to count) throughout the day - mostly either door-to-door, search on maps, or Instagram search.

Halfway through the visits I stopped at a place called Roadhouse restaurant that strongly resembled Texas Roadhouse. I got a brisket sandwich and green beans - definitely wouldn't recommend this in Italy…

My final visit of the day was at a gorgeous villa a couple KM outside of Modena. 3 Star Michelin restaurant, newly renovated, gardens everywhere, vineyard in front, sunset, the whole 9 yards.

I just walked up and asked to taste balsamic, and they welcomed me with open arms - their cellar was beautiful, huge, well organized, and classy. I’m very happy about making the visit.

And after that I drive back to the city and upon getting to the door of my apartment realize my keys are in the car - a 15 minute walk away.

No anger, just laughter.

I ended the day hopping between restaurants and bars, talking with locals, and unsuccessfully streaming the Giants game on my phone.

1 Olive Oil Takeaway

The biggest similarity between Olive Oil and Balsamic is many producers don't sell and solely enjoy for themselves.

Known by locals as Black Gold, balsamic is much different than Olive Oil as a product. It's meant to be oxidized (holes on top of barrels) and DOP means everything from a quality standpoint (commercially).

DOP Balsamics are 1 ingredient: cooked grape must, while other Balsamics may contain up to 2% of Caramel Color or Wine Vinegar.

For more see here:

1 - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Balsamic_vinegar

2- https://www.italianmade.com/usa/pdo-pgi/#:~:text=The%20PDO%20recognizes%20agricultural%20products,linked%20to%20the%20geographical%20area.

-Jack

Thank you for reading and welcome to the blog! I'm traveling through Europe on a quest to find great Olive Oil.