The grape variety Aligoté

Aligoté is a white grape variety traditionally grown in Burgundy, France, though it is also cultivated in Eastern Europe and smaller regions globally. The grape produces wines with a pale straw color and a vibrant, fresh profile. Aromatically, Aligoté is characterized by notes of green apple, citrus zest, white flowers, and subtle herbal undertones. On the palate, it offers lively acidity, a light to medium body, and flavors of lemon, green pear, and sometimes a touch of flinty minerality.

Burgundy’s Côte Chalonnaise, especially Bouzeron, is the heartland for high-quality Aligoté, although it is also found in regions such as the Loire Valley and Eastern Europe, notably Bulgaria and Russia. The grape is primarily vinified as a dry, unoaked white wine, but can also be used in sparkling wine production, such as Crémant de Bourgogne.

Aligoté’s brisk acidity and crisp style make it an excellent companion to a variety of dishes. It pairs superbly with oysters, shellfish, goat cheese, sushi, and salads. Its clean character also makes it the preferred choice for the classic French aperitif Kir, blended with crème de cassis.