In Piemonte, this grape is cultivated almost exclusively in the north of the province of Asti, the Pinerolese area, and in the Collina Torinese; it is often confused with other varietals also called “Bonarda”, such as Croatina in the Oltre Po Pavese area or Uva Rara around Novara. It is a vigorous vine that is suitable for horizontal growing systems (small pergolas) or counter-espaliers; it is resistant to disease and output is fairly constant even if, in the presence of viruses, it can be prone to irregular bunch development. The grape’s winemaking qualities are very good: the Bonarda grape produces wines with an intense, stable colour, and a good harmonious structure, with an adequate but not excessive level of fixed acidity, that means it ages quite well.
