At the heart of our Jardin des Vignes, where biodiversity reigns supreme, cabbage holds a privileged place. Far from being a mere extra, this robust and generous vegetable is a true symbol of our approach: reviving the agricultural practices of yesteryear, where vines coexisted harmoniously with other crops. Cultivated in "joualles" – rows planted between the vines, as our ancestors practised – the cabbage at Château Cazebonne is much more than food: it bears witness to a history, that of respectful and integrated agriculture.

Historically, the presence of cabbage in vineyards is nothing new. Thumbing through the pages of "Bordeaux, une histoire de cépages" by Jean-Baptiste Duquesne, one discovers that the plots were very often mosaics of crops. Cabbage, in its multiple varieties – headed, kale, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts – has always nourished generations and adapted to varied terroirs. Its presence in our vines is no accident. It is part of a logical approach to virtuous polyculture, where the soil is enriched thanks to its ability to structure the earth and promote microbial life. This beneficial interaction between plants contributes to the vineyard's natural balance, reducing the pressure from diseases and pests.

Francis, the craftsman of our Jardin des Vignes, watches passionately over these crops that enrich our Bordeaux terroir. His cabbages, whether destined for traditional dishes or more contemporary creations, testify to an authentic flavour, the result of work that respects the earth and an agriculture that reconnects with ancestral know-how. This cultivation philosophy, where cabbage grows alongside the vines, reflects a deep commitment to the revitalisation of the Bordeaux winegrowing heritage.

It is in this spirit that Château Cazebonne is committed to replanting in Bordeaux the lost grape varieties, those that created the wealth and diversity of our region centuries ago. As avant-garde winegrowers, we have undertaken to breathe new life into these ampelographic treasures. This long-term work, this audacity to replant the forgotten grape varieties of the Bordeaux wine landscape, is made possible thanks to the unwavering support of a community of enlightened enthusiasts. Their choices, their curiosity, and their commitment by our side are the driving force behind this renaissance. If you wish to discover the fruit of this research and commitment, all our cuvées are available in the Cazebonne boutique.

To deepen your knowledge of this fascinating history of Bordeaux grape varieties, we also invite you to receive the digital version of the book "Bordeaux, une histoire de cépages". This work, published by Éditions BBD and written by Jean-Baptiste Duquesne, explores in detail the extraordinary ampelographic diversity of our region, of which the Jardin des Vignes is a living and promising expression.

Cabbage in traditional agricultural practices

Growing cabbage in "joualles", these rows of vegetables interspersed with the vines, is an ancestral practice that bears witness to an integrated and resilient agriculture. This method promotes biodiversity and enriches the soils, creating a balanced ecosystem where each element plays a crucial role. Cabbage, with its deep root system, contributes to soil structure, thereby improving water infiltration and air circulation. It also participates in the formation of humus, essential for the fertility and vitality of the earth.

An ally for the health of soils and vines

Beyond its nutritional role, cabbage is a real asset for the health of our plots. Its presence between the vine rows contributes to the natural regulation of pest and disease populations. Acting as a companion plant, cabbage can attract certain beneficial insects or, conversely, repel pests, thereby reducing the need for external interventions. This complex and virtuous interaction is a pillar of our approach to agroecology, where we seek to cultivate vines while respecting natural balances.

Cabbage throughout the history of the Bordeaux vineyard

The book "Bordeaux, une histoire de cépages" by Jean-Baptiste Duquesne highlights the historical importance of intercropping in Bordeaux vineyards. Long before monocultural specialisation, the plots were veritable agricultural mosaics, often including vegetables like cabbage. This polyculture not only ensured the subsistence of peasant families but also maintained soil fertility and diversified income. Cabbage, from this perspective, was not a mere supplement, but an essential component of a sustainable and balanced agricultural system, in tune with its environment.

Cabbage in our Jardin des Vignes at Cazebonne

At Château Cazebonne, growing cabbage aligns with the philosophy of the Jardin des Vignes (garden), a space dedicated to experimentation and the preservation of biodiversity. Whether it is headed cabbage, broccoli, or other varieties, each plant is selected for its role in the ecosystem and its ability to enrich the terroir. It is a return to fundamentals, a way of reconnecting with ancestral know-how and creating wines that fully express the richness of their environment. The Cazebonne cabbage is thus the reflection of an agriculture where nature is a partner, and not a mere resource.

At Château Cazebonne, we are proud to perpetuate the ancestral practices that created the richness of our terroir, including growing cabbage alongside our vines. This long-term work, aimed at replanting in Bordeaux the lost grape varieties of its wine landscape, is made possible thanks to the unwavering support of a community of enlightened enthusiasts. Their choices, their curiosity, and their commitment by our side are the driving force behind this renaissance. To deepen your knowledge of this fascinating history, including that of garlic, or for summer recipe ideas like salad, we invite you to download the digital version of our book "Bordeaux, une histoire de cépages". You can also test your knowledge with our oenological quizzes, and of course, discover the fruit of this research and commitment by purchasing our wines in our online boutique.