China: Datong – Shanxi Mature Vinegar

Datong is a major city in the Shanxi province and is often considered the capital of the famous Shanxi Mature Vinegar. Just like champagne or cognac or Tuscan wines are celebrated and revered in Europe, in China – it’s Shanxi Mature Vinegar! Since the local cuisine one is very heavy in starches (like noodles), vinegar’s acidity is used to digest this. Unlike other vinegars, the ones here are made from sorghum, barley, and peas, and then seriously aged for years. The city is lined up with elaborate shops and tasting rooms where you can sample various vintages (jut like French wines) – typically 3, 5, or 10 years. The older the vinegar, the smoother and more expensive it becomes. And while it’s refined and unique – you are still drinking acidic vinegar!