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 1126 reviewsWe love the flavor of this vinegar with french fries, and can't wait to make fish and chips. This is our second vinegar, both are such a pleasant surprise after a life of commercial vinegar!
My go-to malt vinegar used to be from Cornwall, but American Vinegar Works' Porter has become my new favorite. The only downside is that it doesn’t come with a shaker lid. I solved this by transferring it to a London Pub bottle with a slotted lid, which allows for better control when pouring. Next time, I plan to try the IPA variety
Best, Greg
I've only tried the Maine Blueberry and the Hot Apple Cider Vinegar so far, and they are both complex strong flavors. I've used the blueberry as salad dressing and on vanilla ice cream where it has a mildly sweet tangy flavor that's so good. The Hot Apple Cider only has the slightest hint of heat in a very complex vinegar. It is great on fried foods, wings, and well...almost anything. I am looking forward to trying the other vinegar that came in this set.
This is my favorite red wine vinegar ever! We have been trying all the vinegars from American Vinegar Works and love them all. You can't go wrong no matter which one you buy!
OMG!! Who would have thought there would be such a difference in vinegars?!! This vinegar is absolutely amazing!!!!! I’ll never go back!!
I love the rosé wine vinegar. I'm on my third bottle now. It's very versatile, a bit softer and more delicate than either the chardonnay or red wine vinegars. Works great in salads, on vegetables, glazes and marinades. It's not so easy to find rosé wine vinegar. All the American Vinegar Works vinegars I've tried are fantastic.
I had been reading about olive oils and wanted to try a California pressing.... I have been using this AVW oilive oil for my "non cooking oil" olive oil uses and have been very happy with the taste and I thought the AVW pricing was very fair. In fact, I am eating some hot air popped pop corn drizzled with some of this olive oil and seasoned with a no salt seasoning blend as I write this!
This is my third bottle and I am using so much in salad dressing! It makes a smooth dressing with a small addition of olive oil , nothing else needed. Out of this world.
This is amazing. We take this vinegar with us when we are going for fish and chips…. It’s that good!!! Also fantastic in our cheese fondue. Want to “finish” a pot roast before serving…add a dash of this….over the top!!!
This nice well balanced tasty vinegar is perfect for just about everything. It’s expensive…but worth it.
Best Apple cider vinegar I have ever tasted.
They look wonderful, loved the towel and olive oil. We are currently living in chaos with our kitchen taken apart so I have them safely put aside.
this is reorder #2. We like this so we'll, we always make sure we have this on hand.
Each vinegar bottle from the sample packet was delicious. I will definitely order more .
But I am so happy to have found a REAL apple cider vinegar! Shipment was delayed because there was a fear of freezing weather (glass bottle may break in the freeze), and the bottle was not the pretty one shown in the picture (more short and squat), but I am just happy to have the good stuff!