Steen's Sugar Cane Vinegar

Steen's Cane Vinegar

Some years ago while I was in the Phillipines I discovered vinegar made from cane. I wasn't impressed by that maker's product so I have not been anxious to try cane vinegars. This prejudice has been reversed 180 degrees however with the discovery of Steen's Cane Vinegar. I consider this vinegar to be one of America's best vinegars.

Steen's is actually in the business of producing superior sugar cane syrups but several years ago they tried their hand at making sugar cane vinegar. Well, I don't know if it is luck or talent but, I can't say enough good things about this vinegar. I always include it in any vinegar tasting I do as an example of what a fine vinegar can taste like.

Sugar cane is actually a grass so this is an example of a vinegar made from grass. Steen's sugar cane is grown in Southern Louisiana where it is field ripened before being crushed. The syrup is then slowly cooked in open kettles to make a syrup which is converted to cane vinegar. This vinegar is then aged in oak barrels.

They don't say how long they age it but, I am betting that it will be even greater with a little more aging.

In the meantime I find it great for cooking and I highly recommend it for consideration as a "house" vinegar for homes and restaurants because it is a taste that you won't get tired of quickly. And of course it goes with any Cajun Cookin' which calls for vinegar.