More vinegars

The world of vinegar and oils is tucked into a southwest Minneapolis neighborhood in a shop called Vinaigrette. Its many imported vinegars and oils are available on tap to taste or to purchase in refillable bottles.

The balsamic vinegars range from those aged 12 to 18 years to others infused with fruit such as figs or cherries. Find familiar peppery Tuscan oil, bright Syrian extra-virgin olive oils, plus oils flavored with lemon, garlic or porcini mushroom.

Vinaigrette, 5006 Xerxes Av. S., Mpls., 616-922-9192 or 1-888-922-9192, www.vinaigrettemn.com

Tour Leatherwood

Leatherwood Vinegary, nestled along a quiet back road in Long Prairie, Minn., is a hike from the Twin Cities, but well worth a stop if you're heading north of St. Cloud. This shoebox of an operation provides an intimate look at the brewing of this ancient tonic.

Tour the Leatherwood orchards and gardens and stock up at its store. For more information or to schedule a tour, contact Ron or Nancy Leasman, 1-320-732-2879, or e-mail leatherwood@wisper-wireless.com. Visit the website, www.leatherwoodvinegary.com.

Infuse-your-own

Making your own flavor-infused vinegar requires no more than time and patience. Use a good quality red, white or cider vinegar and fresh fruit, or good spices, peppers or herbs. The longer the ingredients sit, the stronger the flavor of the vinegar will be. Think of flavors that work well together (i.e. garlic and herbs; strawberries and basil; jalapeño and parsley).

Infused Vinegar

Makes 1 quart.

For each 1 quart of vinegar use:

• 1 cup fresh cranberries, raspberries, strawberries, sliced peaches or plums, or

• 2 fresh jalapeño peppers, sliced, deveined and seeded, or

• 1 cup fresh herb sprigs such as tarragon, thyme, rosemary, parsley, basil, oregano, dill -- alone or in combination, or

• 5 garlic cloves, peeled

Directions

Put the ingredients in a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. Add the vinegar. Screw on the lid and allow it to sit for 2 days to a week. Strain the vinegar and decant into pretty bottles.