At Château Cazebonne, our passion for wine is inseparable from a deep conviction: that the future of the Bordeaux vineyard is also built by looking at its past. However, our approach, resolutely focused on experimentation and the rehabilitation of forgotten grape varieties, is not always understood. The wine world, so rich in tradition, can sometimes prove closed off to initiatives that diverge from the beaten track. It is in these moments that our "rants" are born, these expressions of frustration in the face of injustice and abnormality which, we believe, hinder evolution and diversity.

The Bordeaux vineyard, proud of its history and its appellations, has often been built on a certain vision of viticultural "normality". Yet, as the book "Bordeaux, une histoire de cépages" by Jean-Baptiste Duquesne, published by Éditions BBD, reveals so well, this history is in fact much more abundant and varied than our contemporary habits might sometimes suggest. Dozens of grape varieties, once emblematic of our terroirs, have been gradually abandoned in favour of a standardisation which, whilst it may have had its historical reasons, today impoverishes our viticultural genetic heritage and our palette of flavours.

Our "rant" is therefore also a cry in favour of this lost diversity. It rebels against the timidity, sometimes, in the face of innovation, against the idea that a grape variety not certified by the appellations would have no place on our land. We are convinced that the richness of a terroir is not limited to a few sacred names, but lies in the multiplicity of vegetal expressions it can offer. Replanting historic grape varieties means breathing life back into a part of the Bordeaux soul, it means exploring new resistances to climatic challenges and, above all, it means offering different, authentic, and audacious wines.

This long-term work, this audacity to replant in Bordeaux grape varieties that were thought to have disappeared, would not be possible without the invaluable support of our many enthusiasts. It is thanks to you, who have adopted our wines and shared our vision, that this rebirth of forgotten grape varieties takes on its full meaning. We thank you for your trust and your curiosity. You can find all our cuvées for sale on the Cazebonne boutique.

To further your discovery of Bordeaux's viticultural history, we also invite you to receive the digital version of the book "Bordeaux, une histoire de cépages" by Jean-Baptiste Duquesne, an invaluable resource for understanding the issues at stake in our approach.

An unapologetic tone to defend our convictions

At Château Cazebonne, we do not hesitate to express our "rants" loud and clear to defend a more respectful, more diverse, and more authentic viticulture. It is a way of affirming our values and making our mark in a sometimes overly conservative viticultural landscape. We firmly believe that innovation and returning to our roots, notably through the rehabilitation of lost Bordeaux grape varieties, are essential for the future and sustainability of our beautiful vineyard.

Diversity, a crucial issue for the Bordeaux vineyard

Behind our "rants" lies a strong idea: that of the absolute necessity to preserve and restore ampelographic diversity. The book "Bordeaux, une histoire de cépages" by Jean-Baptiste Duquesne illustrates this perfectly by revealing the extraordinary richness of the grape varieties once grown in the region before a gradual standardisation took place. This loss of diversity not only impacts the aromatic profile of the wines, but also jeopardises the vineyard's ability to adapt to the challenges of climate change. This is why we campaign for the return of grape varieties like Saint-Macaire and explore other varieties in our quest for renewal for Bordeaux or during our discoveries of grape varieties from elsewhere.

Together, let's cultivate boldness and singularity

Our "rants" are not complaints but calls to action and reflection. They aim to shake up preconceived ideas and encourage bold, forward-looking viticulture. By choosing environmentally friendly practices, such as biodynamics, and by replanting forgotten grape varieties, we are working towards a wine that has meaning and tells a unique story. It is a commitment we share with committed winegrowers in Bordeaux.

A cry in favour of authenticity and innovation

This bold approach by Château Cazebonne, which consists of replanting grape varieties in Bordeaux that were thought to have disappeared forever, would not be possible without the unwavering support of our enthusiasts. It is thanks to you, who have adopted our wines and shared our vision, that this rebirth of forgotten grape varieties takes on its full meaning. To go further in understanding this fascinating viticultural history, we invite you to download our digital version of the book "Bordeaux, une histoire de cépages" and to test your knowledge of the wine world. Finally, all our cuvées are available to enrich your oenological experience by visiting our online shop.