Eat Well, Live Free - Traditional Balsamic Vinegar: Audio Blog with Rick Mindermann

(Photo courtesy Eat Well, Live Free)

Darrell Corti, owner of Sacramento’s beloved Corti Brothers, is an old fashioned and trusted shopkeeper. He is an expert in the production and history of the food and beverages he sells in his artisanal grocery and ensures that his staff is well trained to carry that knowledge to the customer. Corti handpicks the majority of his specialty products in his extensive travels and during biweekly wine tastings. He also utilizes his relationships with local artisans. (Luckily, one can order his products online!)

Corti is not just any local shopkeeper. We spoke with Rick Mindermann, store director and personal assistant to Corti, about Corti’s world renowned contributions to the food world including the introduction of Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale (Traditional Balsamic Vinegar) to the United States. By importing and educating consumers about this rare artisinal product, Corti has effectively protected the product and encouraged its survival.

Traditional balsamic vinegar has been produced since ancient civilizations. It is remarkably different from industrial vinegar and is identified by its thick syrupy density, caramel flavor and balance of sweet and sharp acidity. Today the product is made largely by hobbyists under strict monitoring by the Consortium of Producers of Traditional Balsamic Vinegar. The product is made in only two geographical regions – Modena and Reggio Emilia.

Story and audio continued here.



Type rest of the post here