Behold! Our Favorite Sherry Vinegar

Lille Allen/Jordan Moss On day three of the Eater Advent Calendar, unwrap a dainty bottle of really rich, really savory, really great sherry vinegar with a big chef endorsement Roll over balsamic — sherry vinegar is my acid number one. The mahogany elixer is a hair more savory than sweet, with a high astringency and a deep sherry-esque flavor that makes it my favorite for more umami-forward dressings and marinades. Think roasted pee-wee potatoes dressed with a sherry vinaigrette, or bittery winter greens drizzled with sherry vinegar and olive oil. Vinegars are the underrated workhorse of the kitchen, and a high quality, nuanced one has transformative powers. But is vinegar worth gifting? Hell yes it is! And this version — made with Xemenez grapes in southern Spain, is endorsed by none other than José Andrés, so you don’t have to take my word for it. — Lesley Suter, special projects director No peeking! But check out what the Eater Advent Calendar has already revealed. And check back each day for a new clutch condiment, gadget, or nibble that, yes, makes an amazing gift — but these surprises are just for you.