From: Fronton, Southwest France, France
Varietal: Braucol 60%, Côt (Malbec) 40%
Taste: The 2022 Vignobles Arbeau 'Radical Cassoulet' presents a deep ruby color with hints of purple at the edges, reflecting its youthful vibrancy. On the nose, it offers an inviting mix of aromas, including ripe red and black berries like blackcurrant and raspberry, intertwined with subtle floral notes of violet and a touch of savory herbs. The palate is fresh and lively, with juicy fruit flavors balanced by earthy undertones and a gentle spiciness. Soft tannins and a smooth texture lead to a clean, bright finish, making this wine approachable and food-friendly.
Pairing: As the name suggests, this wine was crafted to pair with regional cuisine—most notably the classic Cassoulet. Naturally, it shines alongside a classic Cassoulet, the iconic slow-cooked French dish with white beans, duck confit, and pork sausages, as its bright freshness cuts through the dish’s rich textures. It’s equally well-suited for Toulouse sausage with lentils, where the wine’s smooth texture and herbal undertones complement the savory lentils and meaty sausages. For roasted meats, it pairs wonderfully with duck breast (magret de canard) and grilled pork chops with Herbs de Provence, as the wine’s lively acidity and soft tannins enhance the tender meat and herbaceous flavors. Rustic fare, such as stuffed bell peppers with rice and sausage and roasted chicken with wild mushrooms, compliment this wine, as its subtle earthy and herbal notes blend seamlessly with these dishes' rich, savory components. A charcuterie board featuring cured meats, pâté, and terrines allows the wine’s fresh, rustic charm to shine, while a comforting lamb stew with root vegetables brings out its depth and balance.
Slow-Cooker Cassoulet
By Mark Bittman
About. Vignobles Arbeau is a family-owned winery in the Southwest of France with a rich history and deep connection to the terroir of the Côtes du Frontonnais appellation. Known for its focus on indigenous grape varieties and sustainable viticulture, the estate combines tradition and innovation to produce wines of character and authenticity.
The history of the estate dates back to 1878, when the Arbeau family first established their roots in the region. Initially involved in wine trading and agriculture, the family progressively shifted toward winemaking, cementing their reputation in the Fronton appellation, a lesser-known but vibrant wine-producing area. The family's legacy is marked by resilience and a dedication to preserving the land; values passed down through generations.
Today, the estate is run by Anne Arbeau and her brother, Gérard Arbeau, who represent the fifth generation of the family. Anne, who also serves as the estate’s winemaker, is deeply invested in promoting local varieties and sustainable practices. The siblings have modernized operations while maintaining the family’s dedication to their historic vineyards. Their philosophy is clear: to produce wines that honor the land, celebrate the local grape Negrette, and showcase the region's unique identity.
The Côtes du Frontonnais lies just north of Toulouse, where the proximity to the Garonne River creates a diverse microclimate. The sandy, gravelly soils are particularly well-suited for Negrette, the signature grape of Fronton. Negrette is celebrated for producing aromatic, fresh, and deeply expressive wines with notes of dark berries, violets, and a hint of spice. Alongside Negrette, Arbeau works with Syrah, Cabernet Franc, and Malbec, crafting wines that blend tradition with contemporary appeal.
Wine Notes: This 2022 vintage is a blend of 60% Braucol, and 40% Côt.
Braucol, or Fer Servadou, is a historical grape variety primarily grown in Southwest France, particularly in appellations like Gaillac and Marcillac. Known for its resilience and adaptability, Braucol thrives in the region’s diverse soils and temperate climate, producing wines with structure, elegance, and a distinct sense of place. Often cultivated using sustainable and traditional methods, this grape reflects the rustic charm and heritage of its origins. Though not as widely recognized as other French varieties, Braucol remains an integral part of the viticultural identity in Southwest France, where it continues to play a role in producing expressive, terroir-driven wines.
Côt, the historic French name for Malbec, is an intensely pigmented grape known for producing wines with structure, elegance, and remarkable aging potential. Traditionally grown in Cahors in Southwest France, which yields tannic and robust wines, Côt also thrives in the Loire Valley, where it takes on a fresher, lighter expression. Though its global fame skyrocketed in Argentina, Côt remains a cornerstone of French winemaking, celebrated for its ability to reflect the terroir and deliver wines of depth and character.
The grapes for 'Radical Cassoulet' come from the gravelly and sandy soils of the Fronton appellation, located just north of Toulouse. This terroir benefits from the Garonne River's influence, with warm days balanced by cool nights that allow for the fruit's slow, even ripening. The Arbeau family carefully cultivates these vineyards with sustainability at the forefront, encouraging biodiversity and minimal intervention to let the land speak through the wine.
