The Oil Press! The monthly newsletter of Fondo Gionino
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Dear Friends,
We continue our story about the legendary Villa San Donnino Acetaia (Vinegar Farm), located just outside Modena in the heart of Emilia-Romagna, northern Italy, and its exceptional balsamic vinegar.
In this issue, you will learn how balsamic vinegar is produced and why exactly Modena is renowned for this product. Additionally, you will get a glimpse of Pierce Brosnan’s very own set of barrels.
Discover more in the video interview hosted by Anthony Mavrogiannis, featuring Valentina Mattioli, the manager of Villa San Donnino Acetaia.
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ACETO BALSAMICO TRADIZIONALE DI MODENA D.O.P.
VILLA SAN DONNINO
True masterpieces of flavor, born of time and passion
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At Villa San Donnino Acetaia, they never replace their barrels. The older the barrels, the better the quality. This particular barrel is the oldest in their production. It dates back to 1512, although not all of it is original. The surrounding wood was replaced because it was too damaged, but the barrel itself is still in use.
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Check out our store and receive a 10% discount on NERONE and BIANCO BALSAMIC VINEGAR!
Just enter the discount code Modena2025at checkout to save 10% on purchases through August 31, 2025!
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Balsamic Vinegar Villa San Donnino Bianco - aged 2 years (100 ml)
is a white balsamic condiment with a delicate, slightly sweet and tangy profile — much gentler than traditional dark balsamic.
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Balsamic Vinegar Villa San Donnino Bianco - aged 2 years (200 ml)
is a white balsamic condiment with a delicate, slightly sweet and tangy profile — much gentler than traditional dark balsamic.
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Balsamic Vinegar Villa San Donnino Nerone - aged 6 years (100 ml)
is a dense, rich, and aromatic condiment, deeper in flavor than younger balsamics. At 6 years, it strikes a beautiful balance between sweet, tangy, and matured complexity.
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Balsamic Vinegar Villa San Donnino Nerone - aged 6 years (200 ml)
is a dense, rich, and aromatic condiment, deeper in flavor than younger balsamics. At 6 years, it strikes a beautiful balance between sweet, tangy, and matured complexity.
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We’re also proud to bring you traditional Mediterranean treasures like Fondo Gionino Extra Virgin Olive Oil, authentic Italian Pasta, and olive oil based handmade soaps.
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The Perfect Cheese Pairings for Traditional Balsamic Vinegar
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Traditional balsamic vinegar paired with a cheese platter is a great way to add style and complexity – think sweet, tangy, aged fullness competing with creamy, salty cheeses. Balance is the key because balsamic works best when used as a garnish – just a drizzle to highlight the taste of the cheese.
Here is a breakdown of cheeses that go well with traditional balsamic vinegar and how to serve each:
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Parmigiano Reggiano
The hard, nutty, and salty cheese is the perfect contrast to balsamic vinegar’s sweetness. Never slice it! Break it into rustic shards, drizzle a little bit of balsamic vinegar directly on top.
For extra zest, add a walnut or fig alongside each piece.
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Aged Pecorino (Toscano or Romano)
Pecorino is made from sheep’s milk. It’s sharp and salty with grassy notes go well with the depth of balsamic vinegar.
Slice thin or cube it, drizzle balsamic on the side for dipping. For extra sweetness, add honey or pear slices.
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Gorgonzola Dolce or Blue Cheese
This creamy and tangy cheese balances well with balsamic vinegar’s syrupy sweetness.
Spread on crostini or crackers and drizzle with balsamic vinegar. Take it to the next level by adding a roasted walnut or fresh fig on top!
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Burrata or Mozzarella di Bufala
This mild cheese lets balsamic shine! Place the whole on a plate. Crack open, drizzle balsamic vinegar & Fondo Gionino extra virgin olive oil. Serve with crostini.
To elevate flavor, add a sprinkle of sea salt and fresh basil.
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Robiola
Balsamic vinegar boosts the flavor of this tangy and creamy cheese. Spread on bread or crackers, drizzle a bit of balsamic vinegar.
For texture and contrast, add crushed pistachios or a bit of fig jam.
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Taleggio or Fontina
Balsamic vinegar adds a gourmet edge when combined with these semi-soft cheeses.
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Extras to Enhance Your Cheese Platter!
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Traditional balsamic vinegar is best when paired with flavors and textures that compliment it. Try adding these:
Figs or fig jam Strawberries or grapes Toasted walnuts or almonds Honey or chestnut honey Crusty bread or grissini Prosciutto di Parma or bresaola
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Serving Tips:
Use an eyedropper or spoon for the perfect amount of balsamic vinegar. Do not drench!
While serving, keep balsamic vinegar room temperature so it retains its thickness and aroma.
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Visit the Ferrari Museums and Experience the Autodrome
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Start your Ferrari experience with a visit to the Enzo Ferrari Museum in Modena, dedicated to the life and work of the founder of this legendary autoworks.
The Ferrari Museums, together with the Autodrome of Modena, offer visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy an unforgettable experience. Presenting your museum ticket grants you to drive your own vehicle on the iconic Modena Autodrome track for 15 minutes.
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Warmly,
The Fondo Gionino Team
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