Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale di Modena PDO—one of the most distinguished products under Italy’s protected designation of origin (PDO) system—is currently touring the United States alongside the Arena di Verona Foundation, supporting the launch of the 2025 Arena Opera Festival as an official supplier.
The initiative marks a renewed partnership following the success of the 2024 campaign, which saw the Consortium represent Modena’s artisanal vinegar at major opera season previews across Europe, Canada, and the U.S. This year’s focus is on engaging travel agencies, tourism boards, and international press to promote Italy’s cultural and gastronomic excellence abroad.
Events in Boston and New York offered guests the opportunity to experience guided tastings of the so-called “oro nero di Modena”—Modena’s “black gold”—led by Consortium Vice President Leonardo Giacobazzi. Attendees sampled the balsamic vinegar pure and paired with other regional products, underscoring its refined versatility.
“Participating in these exclusive events is a point of pride for us,” said Giacobazzi. “Modena and Verona are linked by opera, and we hope this shared heritage inspires global audiences—especially our American hosts—to discover Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale PDO firsthand, through visits to our production sites and an appreciation of a process that is truly unique in the world.”
The first event was held at the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston’s Morris Auditorium—a symbolic venue at the heart of Massachusetts’ economic life—attended by Italian Consul General Arnaldo Minuti, alongside the Consuls General of Japan, Germany, and Israel. The second took place at the Italian Cultural Institute in New York in the presence of Italian Consul General Fabrizio Di Michele.
More than 70% of the product’s export volume is concentrated in four markets: the United States, France, Germany, and Japan. Traditional balsamic vinegar has seen steady growth in recent years, both in terms of volume and market positioning. Today, the Consortium oversees more than 200 producers, regulating an annual output of just 16,500 litres—equivalent to 165,000 prized 100ml bottles. Retail values can exceed €5,000 per litre, underscoring the traditional balsamic vinegar’s position as a niche luxury product.