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 1168 reviewsI do not know what culinary words to use in praising the blueberry vinegar....but it is luscious and I can actually use it on a salad alone, and of course, always a touch into a soup or stew...love all the American Vinegar Works products....and do not forget- low calorie count!!!
Excellent flavor! I will be purchasing again.
Super fast shipping and careful packing.
Well done!
We love this vinegar! I just received two of these variety packs. We love all of the flavors. We make fresh salad dressing every day so I can choose a different vinegar daily.
Fabulous new vinegar that I've already used in salads and Chimichurri sauces. Love the new flavor.
I have loved every vinegar from this company I have tried. I especially like the ones that have a bit of sweetness in them. This one adds a little "zing" with it's subtle heat. I really love it!
I was blown away by the depth and flavor of this amazing work of craftsmanship. I'm hooked for like. Hands down, the best vinegar I've ever tasted. Will be using it in everything!
So many ways this flavor works.... breakfast, lunch, dinner! Just the right amount of heat and just the right amount of sweet. I use it so often that it stays sitting on the counter between the fridge & the cooktop. Win! Win!
Love the honey and the heat.
Just received my first order. It will not be the last! Great company!
This vinegar is sweet with a touch of heat. It provides a refreshing burst of flavor when used at full strength.
I drink most of my vinegar, 1T per 12oz glass of water, with about a cc of liquid stevia (Trader Joe's). This vinegar tastes great at this dilution, but loses all of its heat. If you are looking to drink your vinegar, go with the regular Honey Wine Vinegar for a nearly identical result.
I'm looking for more situations where I can use this vinegar to its advantage. I like the sweet and tingly effect I get from the full strength product. I expect that it will be excellent on fish or on a simple salad.
If you want a full bodied malt vinegar, then this Porter Beer malt vinegar is the one for you. We love it!
I do like a balsamic salad dressing, but I feel there needs something to balance the taste of the balsamic. When I switched from the sherry vinegar I had been using to American Vinegar Works, the improvement was astounding!
Just used a tablespoon of this before serving sautéed zucchini slices -- so good! Give the hint of acid without the sharpness of other vinegars, and a hint of sweet too!
I love this company because their vinegars are wonderful including the hot honey vinegar. It’s slightly sweet with a nice touch of heat.
This is a perfect vinegar for people who like to cook. I love that it comes in a large kitchen friendly size. But I don't care for the new bottle style. The old bottles were worth keeping and re-using. The new bottle just goes in the recycling bin.