Bored with your balsamic? No more. We just received some wonderfully new and deliciously fun balsamic vinegars and balsamic jellies – yes, I said jellies - that could be your new alternative to the traditional. All from Modena, these House of Balsamic products embody the sultry summer evenings and ice-cold winter nights that are a part of the vital aging process of the best vinegars. Modena’s unique micro climate makes it one of the only two regions (Emilio Reggia being the other) that can produce authentic balsamic vinegars. Stop by and try these wonders for your next incredible culinary experience.

Balsamo di Mela - is a light and fruity apple balsamic vinegar. Aged for five years, this authentic Italian product adds a light and satisfying sweetness for a variety of meals. Fantastic with French toast topped with cinnamon and apples or a panini with roasted pears, caramelized onions, Fontina cheese and a drizzle of Balsamo di Mela. This is also wonderful with pork tenderloin or pulled pork.

Prelibato is a traditional white balsamic of Modena, Italy. It’s delicate, creamy flavor makes it an ideal condiment for seafood, fish or fruit.

Balsamo di Arancia is a light and tart orange balsamic vinegar. Aged in wooden barrels, this extraordinary Italian product adds an unforgettable accent drizzled over a chocolate pound cake with an amaretto-scented whipped cream and orange balsamic. Great for the season would be field greens with blood oranges, Marcona almonds and dates.

Add a real zing to your cooking with the balsamic jellies! They are sublime with cured meats, added to yogurts or served with a variety of cheeses. The Prelibato, a white balsamic jelly, is exquisitely suited as a spread for cheese, particularly those varieties that are hard and salty like a Pecorino Romano or Ricotta Salata. Fragolina Jelly, a strawberry infused jelly is the ideal topping for fresh cheeses and a sweet spread to breakfast breads, cocktail parties or an afternoon tea. Saporina Jelly made from Saporoso balsamic vinegar is thick and well-balanced, perfect for most breads, cheeses, fruits and meats. Pick your favorite.

Now, here is a fun idea for your next cocktail hour:

Classic Balsamic Martini

1 1/2 oz. Vodka
Splash of Vermouth
Splash of Framboise
3 Strawberries hulled and sliced.
15 drops of House of Balsamic 6-year old Balsamic Vinegar

Put sliced strawberries in a cocktail shaker, add ice, Vodka, Framboise, Balsamic and shake.
Pour Vermouth into martini glass to lightly coat surface and spoon in the sliced strawberries. Pour the remaining shaker contents into glass and serve. Makes 1 martini