At the heart of our vineyard plots at Château Cazebonne, we observe with great interest the presence of bush-crickets (order Orthoptera, family Tettigoniidae). Often confused with grasshoppers, these insects are distinguished by their long, thread-like antennae and a more diverse, often omnivorous diet. They feed on leaves and flowers as well as other insects, making them essential players in natural regulation.

Their presence is a genuine indicator of rich biodiversity. Equipped with powerful hind legs, these insects move discreetly, their agile leaps allowing for swift movement. They are visible mainly from spring to autumn, the period during which they moult and develop into their adult stage. Their distinctive song is a sign of vibrant activity within the vineyard.

Bush-crickets occupy various habitats across our estate. They are primarily found in grassed areas, along parcel edges, or concealing themselves within the cover crop. At Château Cazebonne, we observe them in a non-intrusive manner, respecting their natural life cycle. These refuge areas provide them with shelter and food resources, helping sustain them within the ecosystem.

The ecological role of bush-crickets is manifold: as herbivores, they help regulate vegetation, and as predators, they assist in controlling other insect populations. Their impact on the vines at Château Cazebonne is generally neutral. While they may occasionally nibble a few leaves or young shoots, in a balanced ecosystem this pressure is negligible and poses no threat to the harvest. On the contrary, they foster a biological balance essential to sustainable viticulture. Their presence bears witness to a healthy environment where natural balances regulate populations, in full harmony with our biodynamic approach. This aligns with our philosophy of observing and understanding the vineyard's natural dynamics, as highlighted by Jean-Baptiste Duquesne in his book, where harmony with the environment is paramount.

At Château Cazebonne, we are committed to replanting forgotten Bordeaux grape varieties, an endeavour made possible thanks to the support of the many wine enthusiasts who have embraced our wines. To explore these themes further, we invite you to download the digital edition of the book “Bordeaux, une histoire de cépages”, test your wine knowledge with our wine quizzes, or discover our cuvées directly by exploring our online shop.