Aligoté

Burgundy’s lesser-known white grape, Aligoté, offers a refreshing alternative to Chardonnay. Crisp and lively, it showcases bright citrus, green apple, and floral notes with a distinctive mineral edge. Historically considered a secondary variety, it has found prestige in Bouzeron, where careful winemaking brings out its elegance and complexity. High acidity makes it an excellent base for the Kir apéritif, traditionally mixed with blackcurrant liqueur. While often overshadowed by Chardonnay, Aligoté’s light-bodied freshness pairs beautifully with seafood, goat cheese, and shellfish. With thoughtful viticulture, old-vine Aligoté can produce surprisingly complex, age-worthy wines.