Vinegars and oils are essential to any well-stocked kitchen. Most of the time they’re meal enhancers and don’t steal the show, but we think balsamic, apple cider, and champagne vinegar (not to mention rich olive oils) deserve some attention in their own right. Over the years, our test kitchen has developed many recipes that shine a spotlight on these pantry workhorses. Keep reading to discover our favorite summertime dessert that features a splash of balsamic vinegar, or all the ways you can doctor up apple cider vinegar. Once you get cooking with these ingredients from Napa Valley Naturals, you won’t ever want to be without them.

The History of Napa Valley Naturals

Specializing in oils and vinegars, Napa Valley Naturals was founded in California’s famed wine country in the early 1990s. Today, the brand is under the umbrella of Stonewall Kitchen, a specialty food company with more than 25 awards under its belt and known for offering quality artisanal products to discerning home cooks.

Napa Valley Naturals Company Mission

Napa Valley Naturals uses the best olives, grapes, nuts, and seeds to make its premium oils and vinegars. With ingredients sourced from around the world, you’re guaranteed to enjoy the best flavor in every bottle. Its iconic packaging looks like an elegant wine bottle, and might even inspire your next West Coast-inspired menu.

Benefits of Napa Valley Naturals

Many of Napa Valley Naturals’ products are certified organic, and every bottle is infused with the Northern California roots the brand has been known for. Being part of Stonewall Family Kitchen means Napa Valley Naturals is held to its parent company’s high standards. That has led to numerous awards and accolades from the Specialty Food Association, including three Outstanding Product Line Honors. In 2015, Stonewall was induced into the Specialty Food Hall of Fame.

Top Napa Valley Naturals Products

Thrive Market members love to use these Napa Valley Naturals in their kitchens.

Organic Toasted Sesame Oil

This nutty oil is made from sesame seeds that were roasted at a low temperature which lends itself to a smooth flavor. Use it for dressings, sauces, and marinades.

Champagne Reserve White Vinegar

Try this artisan vinegar that’s made with a combination of sparkling wine from several California cellars. Use it in place of white wine vinegar, and enjoy the subtle golden color that’s reminiscent of your favorite champagne.

Organic White Wine Vinegar

A perfectly balanced white wine vinegar is always a good choice for rounding out dishes—try it in your next pickle brine and you’ll see what we mean. This variety uses organic wine grapes that have been aged in oak.

Cooking With Vinegar

Cooking with vinegar doesn’t have to be intimidating. Try these easy recipes that are sure to become family favorites!

The Best Balsamic-Braised Short Ribs Recipe

You’ve gotta try this rich and tender short ribs recipe. It’s slow-simmered with balsamic vinegar, bone broth, and woody herbs like rosemary and thyme.

The Best Apple Cider Drink Recipes

Some people knock it back like a shot, but there are lots of ways to infuse drinks with apple cider vinegar, too. Try our recipes for an elderberry switchel (perfect for getting through a cold) or a slow-cooker bone broth to sip and savor.

The Perfect Summer Popsicle Recipe

Cool down with superfood popsicles made with chia seeds, blueberries, and a touch of balsamic vinegar. Trust us, it’s the perfect addition to elevate this summertime treat.

Napa Valley Naturals, Organic Toasted Sesame Oil