Bonarda

A grape which seems to have multiple identities! Though to have originated in Italy, it has many different names according to the region that it is grown in.

Characteristics: Full and juicy, it produces wines with hints of strawberries which are ready for immeditate drinking. In Italy, it is often blended with Barbera and Nebbiolo.

Where is it found? Known as Bonarda Piedmontese in Piedmont where it was once widely planted, the variety has now somewhat fallen out of favour. It is however, extensively planted in Argentina, where it is often blended with Malbec. The warm days and cool nights of Argentina lead to wines with deep, rich colour and intense, supple fruit. Other names for the variety include Bonarda di Chieri and Bonarda Gattinara, though the official name of the variety is Croatina

Wines associated: Both single variety and blends from South America, usually identified on the label. Wines from Italy include the DOC's Oltrepo Pavese, San Colombano al Lambro,. Colli Tortonesi, Lessona, Monferrato Ciaret and Colli di Parma.

Food Matches: Fantastic with a wide variety of roast meats.

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