Good balsamic vinegar in Calgary?

[DizzyEdge]

I was wondering if anyone has any favorite bought-in-Calgary balsamic vinegars? Both the 'fake' Balsamic Vinegar of Modena that you get in all grocery stores for everyday use, and some real Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale, or at if not actual Modena or Reggio Emilia, then at least vinegars made according to the same way (12+ yrs aged, etc) but not from those regions (similar to a good 'sparkling wine' but not actual champagne).

I'm trying to get away from grocery store balsamic, and am intrigued about seeing why authentic Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale can cost hundreds of dollars for only 100 mls.

[DizzyEdge]

Thanks everyone, I'll be sure to check these all out

[Budca]

I would try the Italian shops as I have seen what you are looking for. So that would be Lina's, Italian store on Edmonton Trail , and the Italian store close to McKnight.

[aktivistin]

Was just in Fresh Kitchen today and saw that it has a selection of vinegars and olive oils. You could try calling the store first to see which varieties and brands it has: http://freshkitchen.ca

[Shazam]

Real balsamic vinegar takes at lest twelve years to make. The fake stuff takes a few minutes.

CI likes Cavalli Gold Seal Extra Vecchio Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale de Reggio Emilia the best. This is 25 year old vinegar. Lucini Gran Riserva Balsamico is a cheaper option.

Wiliams Sonoma also carries Balsamic Vinegar, although as John Manzo mentioned Lina's has an excellent selection.

[John Manzo]

Lina's. Huge selection, actually better than any Ital market I've been to in Toronto, even.

[Major_9000]

Lina's for sure, great selection...honestly, this is the only place you need to go.

[miss.foodie]

I'm sure Mercato on 4St SW will have a good selection too... although they will likely be quite pricey.

[sharonanne]

Bite is a good suggestion. Lina's also has a decent selection.

Someone will likely mention the Italian market over by McKnight and Deerfoot which is cheaper but I haven't been (too far) so can't promise a good selection.

[Bob Mac]

DizzyEdge:

I am not from Calgary but when I inquired about tasting higher end olive oils, Bite in Inglewood was suggested so the same should apply to balsamic.