Barrel-Aged Vinegar
Vinegars in this collection have been aged in American oak barrels formerly used for rye whiskey production. Barrel aging gives vinegars a mellower flavor profile but does not impart particularly woody or whiskey flavor. We use small, 25 gallon barrels sourced directly from a craft distillery in upstate New York.
Barrel-Aged Vinegar
What does barrel-aged mean?
Barrel-aged means that we age our vinegar in wooden barrels over an extended period to develop deep, complex flavors. This process allows the vinegar to interact with the wood, absorbing subtle nuances and enriching its taste profile. By carefully selecting barrels made from specific types of wood, such as oak or cherry, we can impart unique characteristics to the vinegar, such as hints of vanilla, caramel, or smoke.
The aging process not only mellows the acidity but also enhances the overall richness and smoothness of the vinegar. We take pride in this traditional method, as it exemplifies our commitment to quality and craftsmanship, resulting in a premium product that stands out in both flavor and sophistication.
How is barrel-aged vinegar different?
Barrel-aged vinegar stands out from standard vinegars due to its complex flavor profile, which is achieved through a meticulous aging process in wooden barrels. This method allows the vinegar to absorb subtle nuances from the wood, adding depth and richness that can’t be found in quick-fermented varieties. Over time, the vinegar develops a smooth, well-rounded taste with layers of sweetness, acidity, and occasionally even hints of vanilla or caramel, depending on the type of wood used.
The aging process also often results in a thicker, more robust texture, enhancing its versatility in culinary applications. Whether drizzled over salads, used in marinades, or as a finishing touch to elevate gourmet dishes, barrel-aged vinegar offers a superior quality that transforms ordinary meals into extraordinary culinary experiences.
How should I use vinegar?
Just about everywhere other than breakfast cereal. Really.
Everyone knows that vinegars are essential for vinaigrettes, oil and vinegar salad dressings. But, with a little experimentation, you will see that acid is what was missing from many of your dishes.
You can marinate meats using vinegar, brighten up sauces, season roasted vegetables, make cocktails, even bake with it (google vinegar pie).
The key is to use vinegar sparingly and to adjust flavors slowly by tossing in just a dash or two at a time.
Let customers speak for us
from 919 reviewsLove it!
Perfect with a bit of olive oil for a fruit salad
Just a teaspoon in my drink bottle (16 oz) of water boosts the tast to brightness! Love it!
My new weapon in my arsenal of flavor! Vinaigrettes, sautés and marinades have improved and impressed my wife. Mission: accomplished!
Thank you to American Vinegar Works.
The hibiscus honey vinegar is so so good. I’ve been mixing about a teaspoon of it in a full glass of sparkling mineral water and sipping on that. So refreshing!
I love the way this tastes on salads. I drizzle it over the greens and veggies and then drizzle on good olive oil. I don’t bother mixing them together. If there’s any left at the bottom of my salad bowl I drink it with a spoon. I may be guilty of pouring on too much of the tarragon vinegar just so I can do this. I use this on chicken and fish. After I finished the small bottle I ordered another, and then ordered the big one so I won’t run out. I will decant from the big one into the small one for ease of use. Highly recommended.
I wasn't sure how this vinegar was going to work out. I replaced an apple cider vinegar with Pink Pacific Rose Wine Vinegar in a marinade for grilled chicken that I planned to use in several dishes. My family were amazed at how just a switch of one ingredient could make such a difference in the overall flavor of the chicken. I plan on using the Pink Pacific Rose Wine Vinegar and other flavors from American Vinegar Works from here on out! My cooking is greatly enhanced!!
I used the Hibiscus Honey Vinegar to add flavor to a sauteed spinach dish. I was using fresh red onion, garlic, and spinach I had bought from the Farmer's Market. I also was cooking with bacon from a local butcher and an olive oil from a local vender. I didn't want to add a store bought vinegar on such wonderful ingredients. The splash of the Hibiscus Honey Vinegar added a much needed vibrancy to the dish, and my husband took a third helping! I can't wait to see how it adds to the flavor of my other recipes!
a delicious nuanced vinegar for pickles, salad dressing, or anything your heart desires! Bright and superb!
I’ve used the Chardonnay in my salad. Very tasty. Haven’t had a chance to try the others. ❤️
Excellent vinegar. Exceeds what I expected.
Just recently got the sample pack and used a tablespoon of rice vinegar when boiling raw shrimp; really enhanced the flavor. Experimenting as we go but impressed so far
I treated myself to this vinegar for use in a recipe for gazpacho. Since all of the ingredients were coming from my garden, I wanted something special. This vinegar is delicious! Beautiful bottle, packaged well. Great customer service. Thank you, American Vinegar Works!
Rich and dark, love malt vinegar.....................
This is my second purchase of the sampler. I loooove sampling the varied vinegars that are included. I use them to mix in my food and to make a tangy olive oil and vinegar salad dressing. Call me a repeat customer. A happy, repeat customer.