Salad Dressing 2008

Outstanding Salad Dressing 2008: Stonewall Kitchen Balsamic Fig Dressing

Stonewall Kitchen has been creating and perfecting dressings since its inception in 1991. One of 11 in the York, Maine-based producer’s dressing line was born out of owners James Scott and Jonathan King’s love for figs. Outstanding Salad Dressing winner Balsamic Fig Dressing made its debut in January 2008, inspired, says Laura Duncan, director of marketing, from one of their favorite recipes featured in the Stonewall Harvest Cookbook for Cheese Stuffed Figs with a Balsamic Glaze.

“We launched the Balsamic Fig Dressing early in our own retail stores and direct-to-consumer channels, and it was an immediate customer (and staff) favorite, so we were confident that this dressing would be a success,” says King.

“The feedback from customers on the Balsamic Fig has been unanimously favorable. It may indeed develop into one of our top-selling dressings,” Scott adds.

Rich Black Mission figs balanced with the tang of aged balsamic vinegar make for an intensely flavored dressing that does not overpower greens in salads with goat cheese, nuts or dried fruit. The dressing is also ideal for grilling and complements both chicken and pork. 

Balsamic Fig flourishes when merchandised with other dressings, grill sauces or dipping sauces, say the owners. A year-round staple, it can be included in any seasonal promotion or gift basket. The company also suggests sampling with slices of fresh vegetables or even pretzels to allow customers to taste and become familiar with its distinctive flavor profile.  Suggested retail: $6.50; stonewallkitchen.com.—Nicole Potenza Denis

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