The name Prunelas is frequently mentioned in ancient literature, particularly that relating to the Bordeaux vineyards. However, the difficulty lies in the precise identification of this grape variety. Is it a synonym for a variety that is well-known today, or a grape variety that has unfortunately disappeared from our vineyards, leaving behind only written traces? The mystery remains entirely unsolved, and ampelographic research struggles to lift the veil on its true identity. One of its main mentions is found in the statistical and historical dictionary of the communes of the Gironde (volume II) by Édouard Féret, published in 1878, where it is listed among the grape varieties cultivated in certain Bordeaux communes.

History and ancient mentions of Prunelas

In the book "Bordeaux, une histoire de cépages", Jean-Baptiste Duquesne discusses the mention of ancient grape varieties, sometimes forgotten or whose identification is uncertain. Prunelas fits perfectly into this category. Its presence in 19th-century documents suggests that it may have been cultivated in the region, along with other grape varieties of the time that met with various fates: some were supplanted by more productive or resistant varieties, others fell victim to phylloxera, and some simply ceased to be named, their identity perhaps merging with that of so-called "rediscovered" or even still-cultivated varieties. This research work is essential for understanding the evolution of Bordeaux ampelography and enriching our knowledge of the grape varieties of yesteryear.

Thus, Château Cazebonne is resolutely committed to replanting grape varieties that had disappeared from Bordeaux, a precious undertaking made possible thanks to the invaluable support of the many wine enthusiasts who have embraced our wines and share our passion. To explore the culmination of this approach and taste our cuvées made from these rediscovered grape varieties, we invite you to visit the Cazebonne boutique.

To deepen your knowledge of this fascinating history, Jean-Baptiste Duquesne has published the book "Bordeaux, une histoire de cépages" with Éditions BBD. If you would like to receive the digital version by email, please visit 'receive the digital version'.

The perseverance of winegrowers like those at Château Cazebonne in seeking out and cultivating disappeared Bordeaux grape varieties or forgotten grape varieties is an essential contribution to preserving our viticultural heritage. This approach, praised by many enthusiasts, not only breathes new life into the flavours of the past but also helps us better understand the history and characteristics of these enigmatic varieties. To find out more about this pioneering approach, you can also read about these winegrowers who are replanting forgotten grape varieties, and test your knowledge of grape varieties and oenology with our oenological quizzes, while having the opportunity to download Jean-Baptiste Duquesne's book "Bordeaux, une histoire de cépages" via our dedicated book page or discover the wines born from these efforts at the Cazebonne boutique. The Petit Péjac grape variety, for example, perfectly illustrates this dynamic of rediscovering ancient varieties.