First off: yeah, I know supermarket brands aren't the real deal. But I used to buy an inexpensive brand--I think it was called Sante Colline--that no stores in my area seem to stock any more. (I live in Seattle.) I liked it because it had a relatively light body and only moderate sweetness, so it didn't totally overpower the other flavors in my salad dressing or whatever. Most other brands I've tried in that price range taste like bicycle lubricant! (Or how i'm sure it WOULD taste, anyway...) Help me out?? Thanks!
I'm not sure but: 1. Since I am from Austin, TX, the first place I would try would be Whole Foods (based in my hometown; you may have one in Seattle). They have kind of a store brand called 365 that's usually an acceptable inexpensive thing; 2. In Mark Bittner's "How to Cook Everything" cookbook, there is a tip on how to improve the flavor of cheap balsamic vinegar. Can't remember what the tip is, but that's the cookbook I found it in.
I have gotten two good balsamic's recently that were both cheap. One was Great Value, the walmart store brand. The other was in the food section at BIg lots. They might be a lttle strong for you, but since I use them primarily for reductions and syrups, I like the bold body.
Regina Balsamic is my favorite. It is not too bitter and if you use just a little, it ends up kind of sweet,especially with a little olive oil.
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