The 44-53 M rootstock, more commonly known as 44-53 Malègue, originates from a complex cross developed in the post-phylloxera era. It was bred to provide a solution tailored to vineyard needs, particularly regarding phylloxera resistance and adaptation to diverse soil types. This hybrid combines traits from different Vitis species, imparting controlled vigour to the scion and good tolerance to certain pedoclimatic constraints, making it an appealing choice for many winegrowers. Its ability to moderate vigour is especially valued for yield management and wine quality.

Rootstock profile

Adaptation to soil types

The 44-53 Malègue rootstock shows moderate tolerance to active lime, with a chlorosis power index (IPC) of 20, meaning it can tolerate up to 9% active lime without risk of iron chlorosis. This characteristic is crucial for vineyards planted on limestone soils. It also demonstrates good drought adaptability, a quality increasingly sought after in the face of climate change. Its tolerance to waterlogging and asphyxia is moderate, making it less suitable for very heavy or hydromorphic soils, but it performs well in well-drained gravelly and clay soils. To learn more about the importance of living soils and viticultural geology, feel free to explore our dedicated articles.

Influence on the scion

44-53 Malègue imparts moderate vigour to the scion, which is an advantage for controlling vegetative growth and promoting greater berry concentration. Its impact on scion ripening is generally neutral, with a slight delay possible depending on conditions. It provides good regulation of water and nitrogen uptake, contributing to an optimal balance for the vine. This influence helps target qualitative rather than quantitative yields, essential for crafting characterful wines. Grafting is a key stage in the vine's life cycle, and the choice of rootstock is decisive.

Graft affinity and vineyard management

The 44-53 Malègue rootstock displays good grafting affinity with most grape varieties grown in Bordeaux, offering reliable compatibility when establishing new parcels. For vineyard management, its moderate vigour accommodates suitable planting densities and facilitates pruning. Viticultural practices such as vine pruning are essential to optimise its potential.

Vulnerabilities and limitations

Despite its qualities, 44-53 Malègue has vulnerabilities that must be considered. Its low active lime tolerance (IPC 20) makes it susceptible to iron chlorosis in excessively calcareous soils. It is also sensitive to nematodes and may potentially induce coulure in certain grape varieties, depending on the terroir and climatic conditions. Careful management and a thorough understanding of the soil are required to make the most of this rootstock.

Relevance in the face of climate change

In the context of climate change and increasingly frequent periods of drought, 44-53 Malègue's moderate-to-good tolerance to such conditions represents a clear advantage. Although it does not significantly shift ripening times, its ability to maintain balanced production under water-limiting conditions makes it a relevant option for adapting Bordeaux vineyards. Furthermore, other rootstocks, such as the 1447 P rootstock (1447 Paulsen), are also being studied for their capacity to withstand these pressures. Exploring resistant grape varieties in Bordeaux is another promising avenue.

Presence and use at Château Cazebonne

This rootstock is not used at the estate.

Château Cazebonne is committed to preserving and enhancing Bordeaux's ampelographic heritage by replanting forgotten grape varieties—work made possible by the support of wine lovers. To learn more about this approach, feel free to download our book “Bordeaux, une histoire de cépages”, test your knowledge with our wine quizzes, or discover our exceptional wines directly in our online shop.