Aligote

Aligoté is a white grape variety cultivated for centuries in Burgundy. While often considered a secondary variety within the region to the more prominent Chardonnay, Aligoté maintains its own distinct identity and is formally recognised in its exclusively dedicated AOC, 'Bourgogne Aligoté'.

Aligoté is known for its naturally high acidity, which gives the wines a crisp, refreshing profile. It typically produces light- to medium-bodied wines with flavours centred on citrus fruits such as lemon and grapefruit, along with green apple and subtle herbal or mineral notes. Compared to Chardonnay, Aligoté wines are generally less rich and complex, but are valued for their brightness, precision, and drinkability.

The grape is particularly well suited to Burgundy’s cooler continental climate, where it retains its acidity. Today, wine producers have increasingly demonstrated its potential, especially when yields are controlled and older vines are used. Aligoté continues to represent a more understated but historically significant component of Burgundy’s viticultural landscape, offering fresh, vibrant wines that emphasise acidity and purity of fruit.