Also known as the \u2018Tree with a Golden Crown\u2019 due to its use in silk production, Morus alba \u2013 the white mulberry \u2013 has for centuries characterised not only the agricultural landscape but also local industry, bringing the first waves of industrialisation to our province. Unlike its black counterpart, which is native to the eastern shores of the Mediterranean and is also known as the \u2018Gelso Moro\u2019 (probably due to its fruit), the white mulberry is native to China. Its history, which has always been linked to that of silkworm rearing, owes its spread to the Chinese Empress Si Ling Chi, who as early as 2,700 BC noticed some caterpillars eating the leaves of the white mulberry before spinning their cocoons. Fascinated by the lustre of the thread produced \u2013 ideal for creating an empress\u2019s veil \u2013 she ordered that these silkworms be reared. This marked the beginning of silkworm production, and with it that of the white mulberry, the only plant capable of nourishing these demanding caterpillars with its leaves. When the secret of silk production was discovered in Europe in the 15th century, both the silkworm and the white mulberry were introduced and spread rapidly. Unfortunately, in the early 20th century, with the introduction of synthetic fibres \u2013 which were undoubtedly cheaper \u2013 sericulture lost its economic importance, and with it, the cultivation of the white mulberry also went into inexorable decline <\/p>\n\n Thus, from being a “silk” tree, the mulberry tree has become the silk tree for us, thanks to the characteristics of its wood: soft and very porous, particularly suitable for containing vinegar, mulberry wood guarantees a high oxygen exchange and good evaporation.<\/p>\n\n The mulberry wood barrel is part of the traditional Acetaia del Cristo wood collection, along with cherry, juniper, oak, and chestnut. Each collection can vary in composition, ranging from a minimum of five barrels made of different woods: the shapes, volumes, and woods from which the collections are composed are the most precious secret of the vinegar producer. <\/p>\n\n While tradition dictates that each set be made up of different barrels, both in terms of size and type of wood, what has always distinguished Acetaia del Cristo is the use of sets of single-wood barrels, to create vinegars characterized by unmistakable flavors and aromas attributable to the essence. Therefore, in addition to the traditional sets composed of different woods, or the cherry sets alone, Acetaia del Cristo now features sets made exclusively of mulberry wood. At Acetaia del Cristo, we can boast being among the few, if not the only, producers of Traditional and Extra Vecchio Balsamic Vinegar of Modena DOP aged exclusively in mulberry barrels. This uniqueness is thanks to the long history of our Acetaia, which has continued its work for four generations. The Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena DOP aged in mulberry barrels reflects the sweet yet tart flavor of white mulberries, lending an extremely fresh taste as well as distinct fruity notes. <\/p>\n\n Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena DOP, aged for at least 12 years in mulberry barrels, is a delicious vinegar, the result of over 12 years of aging in this wood, which imparts a reassuring flavor along with its balsamic notes. The best way to pair Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena DOP with mulberry barrels is to pair it with natural ingredients, creating a quick and delicious recipe. One example is Baked Omelette Cubes with Grilled Vegetables and Balsamic Vinegar. <\/p>\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/acetaiadelcristo.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/il-gelso-2-1-e1782373352113.png\")
<\/figure>\n\nThe refinement of traditional balsamic vinegar in mulberry barrels<\/h2>\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/acetaiadelcristo.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/il-gelso-3.png\")
<\/figure>\n\nMulberry single essences<\/h2>\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/acetaiadelcristo.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/il-gelso-4.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/acetaiadelcristo.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/il-gelso-5.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/acetaiadelcristo.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/il-gelso-6-1024x1024.jpg\")
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