Bouchalès

Bouchalès is an ancient red grape variety originating from the Garonne Valley in France. Once widely planted in south-west France and Bordeaux, it has now declined significantly, with only 93 hectares remaining in 2016. The variety is susceptible to mildew, botrytis, and black rot but produces colorful red wines with moderate alcohol and pronounced tannins. It is known for its high yield and early budding, though its wines are best consumed young due to their tendency to lose structure and richness over time.

Bouchalès wines are deep in color with moderate alcohol and bold tannins. The wines are generally best enjoyed young, offering vibrant fruit and tannic structure. When not fully ripe, the wine tends to be lighter, less alcoholic, and more acidic.

Bouchalès was once prevalent in the Garonne Valley and Bordeaux but is now almost extinct due to difficult and costly cultivation. It is primarily planted in small quantities in the south-west of France, with only a small area remaining in the vineyards today. Bouchalès is noted for its vigorous growth and sensitivity to wind.

Despite its various synonyms, Bouchalès is distinct from Cinsaut and other similarly named varieties.

It is closely related to Raffiat de Moncade and has been traditionally used to create young, colorful wines.