Origins of varietal innovation

The Bouquet 3160-27-4 N grape variety stems from breeding work conducted by researcher Alain Bouquet, whose approach aimed to develop disease-tolerant varieties while retaining a high proportion of the Vitis vinifera genome. This grape is a descendant of Fer Servadou, an ancestral variety that contributes its genetic traits to this new lineage. Alain Bouquet's breeding programme, spanning 35 years, notably began with crosses between the hybrid variety NC6-15 and Cabernet Sauvignon, followed by further crosses with other Vitis vinifera varieties such as Grenache and Pinot. The goal was to obtain varieties with over 99% V. vinifera genome after several generations, rendering the term 'hybrid' inappropriate at this stage. For more details on this distinction, you can read our article: Hybrid or vinifera? What the resistant grape genome really says.

The Bouquet varieties are renowned for their tolerance to powdery mildew and downy mildew, key characteristics in the context of contemporary viticultural practices and reduced chemical treatments. This breeding strategy makes them resistant varieties of great interest for adapting vineyards to climatic and environmental challenges.

Ampelographic profile

Vineyard performance and disease resistance

Bouquet 3160-27-4 N, like other varieties from the Bouquet programme, stands out for its tolerance to major fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and downy mildew. This characteristic is the result of long-term genetic selection aimed at integrating resistance from Muscadinia rotundifolia whilst preserving the organoleptic qualities of Vitis vinifera.

Winemaking and oenological potential

Although specific data on the oenological aptitudes of Bouquet 3160-27-4 N are still being evaluated for definitive registration, the objective of the Bouquet programme is to ensure winemaking qualities close to those of traditional Vitis vinifera varieties. Efforts focus on achieving aromatic profiles and wine structures that integrate harmoniously into Bordeaux blends.

Tasting profile

As a red (noir) grape variety, Bouquet 3160-27-4 N is intended for red wine production. Its tasting profile is currently undergoing characterisation, but it is expected to offer fruity expression and balanced tannic structure, faithful to its Vitis vinifera heritage.

Presence at Cazebonne

At Château Cazebonne, we take a close interest in the historic varieties that once thrived in Bordeaux. We also plan to plant a few resistant varieties, notably Bouquet selections, to observe their behaviour in the face of climate change.
For any questions about our grape varieties, please do not hesitate to contact us.

An experimental plot is dedicated to observing and studying these grape varieties, alongside other selections such as Bouquet 3159-2-12 B (Chasan progeny), in order to evaluate their potential for inclusion in our red Graves cuvées.

This long-term endeavour to rediscover and replant historic grape varieties, alongside experimenting with new resistant varieties in Bordeaux, is a core commitment of Château Cazebonne. It is made possible thanks to the invaluable support of wine lovers who have chosen to support our wines. To learn more about the fascinating history of the grape varieties that shaped our region, feel free to download our book "Bordeaux, une histoire de cépages". You can also test your wine knowledge with our quizzes, and if you would like to discover the fruits of our labour, we invite you to explore our online wine selection.