Eh 19 Bonarda - 2011

Eh 19 Bonarda 2011 is a 750ml Argentine red wine made from the Bonarda grape, typically bottled at 13–13.5% ABV. As a 2011 vintage, this bottling has had over a decade of development, offering a window into how Argentina's second most planted red variety evolves with significant bottle age.

Quick Facts: ABV: ~13%  |  Origin: Argentina (likely Mendoza)  |  Vintage: 2011  |  Grape: Bonarda

Production & Heritage

Bonarda — also known as Douce Noir in other growing regions — is the second most widely planted red grape variety in Argentina, trailing only Malbec. The vast majority of Argentine Bonarda vineyards are concentrated in Mendoza, the country's premier wine-producing region. While detailed production records for the Eh 19 label are not widely published, Argentine Bonarda wines are generally vinified in stainless steel or aged briefly in oak to preserve the grape's naturally generous fruit character and soft tannic structure.

Tasting Notes

Aroma: Bonarda characteristically opens with dark plum, black cherry, and a subtle floral lift. With over a decade of bottle age, the 2011 vintage may show additional secondary aromas such as dried fruit, leather, and earthy undertones.

Taste: On entry, expect ripe dark-berry fruit with moderate acidity. The mid-palate typically delivers soft, rounded tannins and a fleshy, fruit-driven core that is a hallmark of the Bonarda grape. Extended bottle aging may contribute added complexity, with dried herb and savory notes complementing the fruit.

Finish: Bonarda generally delivers a medium-length finish with lingering notes of dark plum and gentle spice. The 2011 vintage's maturity may add a smooth, integrated quality to the close.

How to Drink Eh 19 Bonarda

Given its age, this wine is best enjoyed at cellar temperature (around 60–65°F) in a large-bowled glass to allow its evolved aromas to open fully. A brief 15–20 minute decanting may help revive the wine after years in bottle.

• Sangria: Bonarda's dark-fruit profile and soft tannins make it an excellent base for a rich red sangria with stone fruits and citrus.
• Kalimotxo: The grape's approachable, fruit-forward nature pairs well in this simple Spanish-origin red wine and cola combination.
• Mulled Wine: An aged Bonarda's deep fruit character stands up well to warming spices like cinnamon, clove, and star anise.

Best For

• Exploring aged Argentine red wines beyond Malbec
• Pairing with a weekend asado or grilled red meats
• Introducing friends to the Bonarda grape variety
• Building out a collection of library-vintage South American wines

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Eh 19 Bonarda taste like? Bonarda wines are known for dark plum and black cherry fruit, soft tannins, and moderate acidity. The 2011 vintage's extended bottle age may contribute additional dried-fruit, leather, and earthy complexity.

How does Eh 19 Bonarda compare to Argentine Malbec? Bonarda generally produces softer, less tannic wines than Malbec, with a rounder mouthfeel and slightly less concentrated color. Where Malbec tends toward firm structure and violet-tinged aromatics, Bonarda leans toward plush dark fruit and approachability.

Is Eh 19 Bonarda good for sipping neat? Yes — Bonarda's naturally soft tannins and generous fruit make it comfortable to drink on its own, especially a mature vintage like 2011 that has had time to integrate and smooth out.

Where is Eh 19 Bonarda made? This wine is produced in Argentina, where the vast majority of Bonarda vineyards are located in the Mendoza wine region at the foothills of the Andes Mountains.

What foods pair well with Eh 19 Bonarda? Grilled beef and lamb chops complement the wine's dark fruit and soft tannins. Hard aged cheeses like Manchego or Parmesan echo its savory side. Empanadas, roasted eggplant dishes, and slow-braised short ribs also pair well, matching the wine's medium body and ripe fruit character.

What sizes does Eh 19 Bonarda come in? This wine is available in the standard 750ml bottle format.

Is Eh 19 Bonarda worth the price? Argentine Bonarda wines generally position in the value-friendly to mid-range tier of South American reds, often delivering generous fruit and easy-drinking appeal at accessible price points. The 2011 vintage adds interest as a library release with over a decade of development.

Why Eh 19 Bonarda?

This 2011 bottling represents a rare opportunity to taste a well-aged Argentine Bonarda — a grape that remains under the radar despite being the country's second most planted red variety. Most Bonarda is consumed young, so a vintage with this much time in bottle is uncommon in the marketplace. For drinkers curious about Argentina's depth beyond Malbec, it provides a genuine point of difference. The combination of Bonarda's naturally approachable character and over a decade of maturation makes this an intriguing bottle for anyone exploring the full spectrum of Argentine winemaking.