Aligote vs Bonarda

Aligote

Phonetic Pronunciation: "ah-lee-go-TAY"
Origin: Originated in the Burgundy region of France.
History: Aligoté is a white grape used to make dry white wines, especially in the Burgundy region of France where it was first recorded in the 18th century. Since it is tolerant to cold, this variety is also cultivated in Eastern European countries.

Bonarda

Phonetic Pronunciation: "boh-NAR-dah"
Origin: Savoie region, France.
History: Bonarda, also known as Douce Noir in France and Charbono in California, is a red wine grape variety that originated in the alpine vineyards of Savoie in eastern France. It was known as 'Corbeau de Savoie' in its native region and 'Douce Noire' in Savoie itself. The grape was introduced to Argentina by Italian immigrants towards the end of the 19th century, where it became widely planted and known as Bonarda. In Argentina, it is the second most widely planted red grape variety after Malbec.

Body (Aligote)

Sweetness (Aligote)

Tannin (Aligote)

Acidity (Aligote)

Alcohol (Aligote)

Body (Bonarda)

Sweetness (Bonarda)

Tannin (Bonarda)

Acidity (Bonarda)

Alcohol (Bonarda)

Taste Notes (Aligote)

Apple
Lemon
Herbal
Mineral
Floral

Taste Notes (Bonarda)

Plum
Cherry
Blackberry
Spice
Herbal

Food Pairing (Aligote)

Aligoté's high acidity and light body make it an excellent match for seafood dishes, particularly shellfish like oysters and clams. It also pairs well with salads, light appetizers, and goat cheese. Its crispness complements dishes with citrus or herbal elements, and it's traditionally used in the Kir cocktail, mixed with crème de cassis.

Food Pairing (Bonarda)

Bonarda's medium body, moderate tannins, and bright acidity make it a versatile wine for food pairings. It complements grilled meats, pasta with tomato-based sauces, and dishes featuring roasted vegetables. Its fruit-forward profile also pairs well with mild cheeses and charcuterie.

Regions Where Grown (Aligote)

France

Burgundy (Bourgogne Aligoté AOC, Bouzeron AOC)

Romania

Various regions

Bulgaria

Stara Zagora Province around Chirpan

Ukraine

Various regions

Moldova

Various regions

Regions Where Grown (Bonarda)

Argentina

Mendoza, San Juan, La Rioja

United States

California (Napa Valley)

France

Savoie

Notable Wines & Producers

Bourgogne Aligoté AOC

Domaine A. & P. de Villaine, Domaine Sylvain Pataille

Bouzeron AOC

Domaine de Villaine

Bonarda Argentina

Nieto Senetiner, Colonia Las Liebres, Durigutti

Charbono

Turley Wine Cellars, Robert Foley Vineyards