Figs are so good, and leave it to Sondra Bernstein of Sonoma's The Girl & The Fig restaurant to blend the delicious fruit into balsamic vinegar – a winning combination. This vinegar will make your life so simple. Everyone will think you're a cooking genius.

Tip of the tongue

Use in a marinade, or simply drizzle over fresh strawberries or vanilla ice cream. Of course, it is fabulous in salads, especially with sharp lettuces like arugula and paired with a soft goat cheese.