Panettone Balsamico

At first I thought this was a gimmick since, for the last decade, it's seems like Italians have been trying to inject balsamic vinegar into every food in sight.  Turns out this invasion is an excellent innovation.  And it kind of makes sense since cooked grape must—the base of balsamic vinegar—was traditionally a sweetner in Italy.

That's how it's employed here. The balsamic is laced through the cake, forming a ribbon of sweet, dark glaze. Instead of finding panettone's usual gems of candied fruit, you'll discover veins of cherry-sweet, luscious caramelized balsamic.

If you're a panettone beginner—or traditionalist—this probably isn't the cake for you. Go for the classic panettone. But if you're looking to expand someone's horizons this makes a great gift. Like with all panettoni the packaging is stunning. And though it has no preservatives, a panettone will last for months. (The current batch expires April 2025). So even if it gets lost under the tree in the midst of all the festivities, it'll still be great when you rediscover it days or weeks later.

Best by April 2025

"The perfect panettone"
Charles Passy, Wall Street Journal

"The best new thing I've tried in a long time."
Eduardo, Brussels, Belgium