Saba: The Sweet Taste of the Grape

From Grape to Gold

It all starts with grapes.

In the heart of wine country, we have a particular appreciation for ingredients that begin with the grape. Saba is one of them. This traditional Italian syrup is made by slowly reducing unfermented grape must—the fresh juice of pressed grapes—until it becomes concentrated, rich, and beautifully complex. Traditionally made from grapes such as Trebbiano or Lambrusco, Saba develops deep fruit flavors reminiscent of raisins and plums as the juice slowly cooks down.

Sweet, Tangy & Surprisingly Complex

A little drizzle goes a long way.

Saba may look similar to balsamic, but its personality is distinctly its own. It brings a gentle sweetness balanced by a subtle acidity, along with layers of fruitiness that can brighten both savory and sweet dishes. Unlike vinegar, Saba begins as unfermented grape juice rather than wine, and its concentrated flavor makes just a small drizzle enough to transform a dish.

A Natural Fit for Wine Country

When the grape meets the garden.

For us at Trellis, Saba feels right at home. We celebrate the bounty of the Willamette Valley through seasonal produce, local ingredients, and dishes designed to complement the wines of our region. Saba brings another expression of the grape to the table—one that adds sweetness, acidity, and depth without overpowering the fresh ingredients we love. It is a beautiful bridge between the vineyard and the kitchen.

The Secret Touch in Our Burrata Salad

Creamy, fresh, with just the right finish.

One of our favorite ways to showcase Saba is in our Burrata Salad, where its sweet-tart character adds a special finishing touch to creamy burrata and fresh seasonal ingredients. The result is a beautiful balance of richness, acidity, sweetness, and freshness. And because we believe every good salad deserves something to soak up those delicious juices, we serve it with our signature house focaccia, finished with sea salt and olive oil.

Come Taste the Grape in a Different Way

From the vineyards of Dundee Hills to your plate.

Saba is a reminder that the story of wine country doesn't have to end when the grapes leave the vineyard. Sometimes, the grape takes another journey—into the kitchen, onto the plate, and into an unexpected flavor that makes a seasonal dish sing. At Trellis, that's exactly what we love about it. Come enjoy our Burrata Salad, explore the flavors of the Willamette Valley, and discover why sometimes the smallest drizzle makes the biggest impression.