Bourgogne Aligoté (2022) - Domaine Pierre Gelin

In the heart of the Côte de Nuits, Domaine Pierre Gelin is a guardian of Burgundian winemaking tradition. Here, among hills that tell stories centuries old, they grow Aligoté, a grape variety often overshadowed by the more famous Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Aligoté has a secret, though: it is the star of the Kir, a cocktail invented by Félix Kir, mayor of Dijon in the 40s. To promote local wines, Kir combined Aligoté with crème de cassis, creating a drink that became a symbol of conviviality.

The appellation: Bourgogne Aligoté AOC

The Bourgogne Aligoté AOC is a fresh, lively white wine produced in the renowned wine region of Burgundy, in France. Made mainly from the native Aligoté variety, this wine is an elegant, versatile alternative to the Chardonnays of the area. The Bourgogne Aligoté AOC appellation is known for its bright acidity, its floral and fruity aromas and its ability to suit a wide range of food pairings.

What to eat with Bourgogne Aligoté

Who makes it: Domaine Pierre Gelin

Domaine Pierre Gelin is a historic Burgundy estate, founded in 1925 and based in the village of Fixin, in the Côte de Nuits. The estate has been run by the Gelin family for several generations, with a strong commitment to making Pinot Noir and Chardonnay of great territorial expression. Pierre Gelin’s approach centres on sustainable viticulture and minimal interference in the cellar, so that the wines can express the terroir at its best. The organic certification obtained recently is testament to their respect for nature and their uncompromising search for quality.

The vine of Bourgogne Aligoté

Aligoté

Aligoté is a white grape variety native to Burgundy, in France, known for its freshness, liveliness and versatility. The second most widely planted white variety in the region after Chardonnay, Aligoté is often associated with the production of Bourgogne Aligoté AOC, a fresh, light wine, but it also lends itself to the preparation of the famous Kir cocktail, made with crème de cassis.

Bourgogne Aligoté: the Côte de Nuits area

Climate: Continental

Altitude: Low to mid altitude (200–500 m above sea level)

Soil: Limestone / chalk

Geographical setting: Hilly

Profile of Bourgogne Aligoté

Primary aromas: Citrus, green apple, wild flowers

Secondary aromas: Fresh almond, butter

Tertiary aromas: Marked minerality

Tasting notes: A fresh, vibrant wine with a citrus profile and a marked minerality, typical of the Aligoté variety. On the palate it is snappy, with a lively acidity and a dry, refreshing finish.