Tradizionale di Modena DOP Yes, it’s an investment, but authentic aged balsamic is nothing like the watery supermarket stuff. After aging in a series of wooden barrels (each type of wood imparts its own unique aromas and flavors), the vinegar turns syrupy and sweet. Just a few drops will suffice on aged Parmesan, steak, or even ice cream and strawberries. $250 for 3.5 oz Plum Plums, Pound Ridge - Advertisement -
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Sam Adams Utopias In 2002, the New York launch of this rare Sam Adams brew at Half Time’s Poughkeepsie location nearly shut down Route 9. Fourteen years later, this gold-bottled, high-alcohol beer (now at the Mamaroneck location, too) is prized for its rarity (only small batches are released and not every year) and rich, almost Cognac-like flavor. $250 Half Time, Mamaroneck |
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La Madeline au Truffe Forbes named this truffle from Connecticut-based chocolatier Fritz Knipschildt the most extravagant chocolate in the world. It’s actually a whole French Perigord truffle enrobed in 70 percent Valrhona dark-chocolate ganache infused with truffle oil and vanilla. Available for pre-order only. $250 Chocopologie, Norwalk |
Don Perignon Oenotheque 1975 - Advertisement -
In the world of bubbly, no name evokes luxury like Dom. Its Oenotheque is the ultimate extravagance: allowed to mature for a longer time, a limited number of bottles are released only when the Champagne reaches its peak, lending more complexity to an already spectacular vintage. $2,500 Zachys, Scarsdale |
Jamon Iberico de Bellota Whether you’re calling it Iberico de Bellota or Pata Negra, there’s no question that it’s the king of hams. Made from an ancient breed of black-footed pig that forages for acorns (bellota means acorn) in the Spanish countryside, it’s sweeter, richer, nuttier—and more expensive—than anything else on the charcuterie board. $139/lb June & Ho, Rye |
White Truffles Chefs and foodies know that late October through February is culinary nirvana for one reason: white truffles. Deeply fragrant, these pale slices aren’t easy to come by. The rare fungi can only be foraged by pigs (no one has successfully cultivated a white truffle) and are found, almost exclusively, in the Piedmont region of Italy. $226/oz Tarry Market, Port Chester |
Russian Caspian Golden Osetra Caviar Only beluga caviar (which is currently illegal in the US) is more prestigious than this Caspian Sea golden osetra. Only one sturgeon in a hundred carry the rare golden roe that was historically reserved for royalty. All you need to add is a mother-of-pearl caviar spoon. $139/oz The Smokehouse of NY |
