Since the creation of Château Cazebonne, we have chosen transparency. It is essential for us to enlighten you on each of our interventions, whether it is the treatments implemented or the reasons that drive us to apply them. This approach is all the more important as it allows us to answer questions, and even criticisms, formulated against organic farming, particularly concerning the use of copper.

Through these pages, you will discover our reasoned approach and our constant commitment to respectful viticulture. We strive to minimise the use of any inputs, favouring alternative and preventive methods. Copper, for example, whose use is regulated in organic farming, is subject to increasingly moderate use on our estate. It is a strong choice, guided by our deep respect for the richness of our soils and the surrounding biodiversity. We believe in a resilient vine, capable of blossoming in harmony with its environment.

Organic viticulture at the service of biodiversity

Our commitment goes beyond the absence of synthetic chemicals. It is a global philosophy, aiming to create a balanced ecosystem where the vine draws its strength from a living and healthy soil. We promote cover cropping, the biodiversity of hedges and parcel borders, the presence of beneficial insects... Every action is designed to strengthen the vine's natural defences and limit its need for external interventions. Careful observation of our vineyard guides our decisions, allowing us to act only when necessary and with the greatest precision.

Preserving heritage and innovating for the future

At Château Cazebonne, this commitment to sustainable viticulture is combined with a passion for the history of Bordeaux grape varieties. Our work is not limited to producing exceptional wines; it also includes an innovative approach to replanting forgotten grape varieties, those that made the richness and diversity of Bordeaux wines before their standardisation. This ambitious project, which you can discover in detail in the book "Bordeaux, une histoire de cépages" by Jean-Baptiste Duquesne, published by Éditions BBD, is made possible thanks to the enthusiasm and unwavering support of all the wine lovers who adopt our wines and share our vision.

We invite you to discover the unique expression of our terroir through our different cuvées, available now on the Cazebonne boutique. To deepen your knowledge of Bordeaux's winemaking history and our approach, do not hesitate to download the digital version of the book "Bordeaux, une histoire de cépages".

The specificities of organic farming treatments

Treatment in organic farming primarily aims to prevent the appearance of diseases and pests, by strengthening the vine's natural resistance and fostering a balanced ecosystem. Unlike conventional methods, it prohibits the use of synthetic chemicals, such as systemic pesticides, herbicides, and fungicides.

Objectives of phytosanitary treatments in organic farming

The main objective is to protect the vine from external attacks without disrupting the biodiversity of the soil and the environment. It is about maintaining the plant's optimal health so that it can fully express the terroir, while ensuring quality production and sufficient yields.

A schedule adapted to the natural cycles of the vine

Interventions are dictated by careful observation of the vineyard and the vine's cycles. They mainly take place in spring and early summer, periods when the vine is most vulnerable to diseases such as downy mildew and powdery mildew (oïdium). Phenological stages, such as budburst, flowering, and bunch closure, are key moments for applications.

Methods and inputs authorised in organic farming

In organic farming, treatments rely on natural or naturally derived substances. The main products used are sulphur and copper. Sulphur is essential to combat powdery mildew, while copper is an effective fungicide against downy mildew. Other preparations, such as herbal teas or plant extracts, can be used to strengthen the vine's defences. Biodynamics incorporates specific preparations to revitalise the life of the soil and the plant. Nettle manure, for example, with its fortifying and repellent properties, is a valuable ally. The role of horsetail is also recognised for its fortifying and fungicidal properties.

Equipment for applying treatments

The application of treatments is mainly carried out using sprayers, whether they are mounted, trailed, or straddle tractors. The objective is to ensure an even and precise coverage of the vegetation, adjusting the volume and pressure according to the foliage and weather conditions. At Château Cazebonne, we favour equipment that allows for high precision to minimise drift and optimise efficiency.

Organic farming vs. other approaches

Organic farming clearly stands out from conventional farming due to the ban on synthetic pesticides. Compared to biodynamics, it is less prescriptive regarding preparations and lunar calendars, but shares the same respect for soil life and biodiversity. The compromise often lies in the management of diseases such as downy mildew, where copper remains an authorised tool but its use is strictly regulated and controlled. For committed winegrowers, this choice is a true philosophy.

Château Cazebonne's approach to respectful treatments

At Château Cazebonne, we go beyond the requirements of organic certification. Our goal is to limit any intervention as much as possible, by fostering the natural resilience of the vine. We practice very fine observation of the vineyard and only intervene if necessary, using the lowest possible doses and favouring a preventive approach. We are constantly looking for new methods and solutions to reduce our footprint and preserve the biodiversity of our soils, such as the use of cover crops or agroforestry.

This meticulous work, where every intervention is thought out for the well-being of the vine and the quality of the wine, is made possible thanks to the support of the wine lovers who adopt our wines. We invite you to discover the rich history and diversity of Bordeaux grape varieties by downloading our book "Bordeaux, une histoire de cépages", to test your knowledge of the wine world and, of course, to taste the fruits of our commitment by visiting our online boutique. For organic winegrowers in the Graves, knowing how to find a good organic wine is a true philosophy.