The Bonarda grape, also known as Douce noir, has its origins in the Savoy region. This region, located in the eastern part of France, has a long history of winemaking dating back centuries. The Bonarda grape has been grown in this region for generations, and it has become one of the key varietals of the area.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of tasting and exploring wines from all around the world. When it comes to Bonarda, I have encountered it in various forms, but it is in Argentina where this grape has truly flourished.
In Argentina, Bonarda has found a new home and has become one of the most widely planted red grape varieties. The grape was brought over to Argentina by Italian immigrants in the late 19th century, and it quickly adapted to the country's climate and soil conditions. Today, Argentina is the largest producer of Bonarda wines in the world.
I remember my first encounter with an Argentine Bonarda. It was a warm summer evening, and I was dining at a small restaurant in Buenos Aires. The waiter recommended a bottle of Bonarda to pair with my steak, and I was immediately intrigued. The wine had a deep purple color and a vibrant aroma of dark berries and spices. On the palate, it was rich and full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a long, smooth finish. It complemented the flavors of the steak perfectly, and I was hooked.
Since that first experience, I have had the opportunity to taste many different expressions of Bonarda from Argentina. The wines can vary in style depending on the winemaker's approach, but they generally exhibit a fruit-forward character with flavors of ripe plums, blackberries, and cherries. Some may also have notes of chocolate, tobacco, or vanilla from oak aging.
One thing that sets Argentine Bonarda apart from its French counterpart is the climate. In Savoy, the grape is grown in a cool climate, which can result in wines with high acidity and lower alcohol levels. In Argentina, on the other hand, the grape thrives in a warmer climate, which allows it to fully ripen and develop more intense flavors and higher alcohol levels.
The versatility of Bonarda is another aspect that I find fascinating. It can be made into a variety of styles, ranging from light and fruity to bold and robust. Some winemakers choose to make single-varietal Bonarda wines, while others blend it with other grapes like Malbec or Cabernet Sauvignon to add complexity and structure.
While the Bonarda grape has its origins in the Savoy region of France, it has found a new home and great success in Argentina. The country's warm climate and winemaking traditions have allowed this grape to reach its full potential, resulting in wines that are rich, fruity, and full of character. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with food, Argentine Bonarda is a wine that is sure to delight and surprise.