What Italian city is known for balsamic vinegar and Ferrari? The answer is Modena, a historic city in Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region.
Modena is closely associated with balsamic vinegar, especially Aceto Balsamico di Modena and the more strictly regulated Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena. The PGI version may combine cooked grape must and wine vinegar, while the traditional PDO product is made only from grape must and must be aged for at least 12 years in wooden casks. Aging can involve woods such as oak, chestnut, mulberry, or juniper.
The city is also a major center of Italy’s motor industry. Enzo Ferrari was born in Modena in 1898, and the company that bears his name developed from his racing activities. Ferrari’s headquarters and principal factory are in nearby Maranello, but Modena is widely recognized as part of the region’s “Motor Valley,” alongside other famous Italian automotive manufacturers.
Modena is not the same as Maranello, a nearby town strongly identified with Ferrari production. Nor should all dark, sweet “balsamic” vinegar be assumed to be the traditionally aged product: labels and protected designations matter.