Discovery and tasting of "Bourru"or ephemeral wine

But what is the "Bourru" ? No, it's not a legendary animal that hides in the mountains. It is a delicious drink, original and ephemeral that is tasted during the harvest period because it is the must of reason during fermentation. His tasting was and remains a tradition among winegrowers and wine connoisseurs .

The Bourru tradition

We can say that the Bourru is a drink that is between the grape juice and the wine . It exists for white wines, rosés and very rarely for red wines . In the past, wine growers offered Bourru tastings during the harvest to attract wine lovers and make themselves known . It would even seem that the most knowledgeable can distinguish a good wine by tasting its Bourru !

Here we go for tasting

A unique drink

The Bourru is a very original drink. It is ephemeral because it evolves over time. It's a " living drink " I was told. At first, it is sparkling and low in alcohol but gradually, in a few weeks the gas will become scarce and alcohol levels increase.

There are very few in the trade for several reasons . First of all, the production is quite short: between the end of September and the middle of November . Then, it is quite difficult to market because it keeps little time , just a few days! Finally, constant fermentation makes it a slightly sparkling drink. Besides, Bourru bottles are sold with caps that let the gas escape. So we avoid wearing them lying down ...

We would not say but it works in there! You see the little bubbles?

Place to tasting

I chose to taste a grilled rosé, which I bought on the Chartrons market from independent winemakers of Château Grand Brun .

I was immediately seduced by the color of this beautiful beverage . It is cloudy and its raspberry color suggests a fruity and tangy taste . Before serving it we notice the fine bubbles that   form and escape from the top of the bottle. Fermentation is in full action!

As for a good wine, we take the time to look at it and feel it before tasting it.

From the first sip, it is the explosion of flavors . It's delicious, fruity and sparkling . It's not wine yet but it's not grape juice anymore. However, there is still a lot of sugar in the fruit. The tradition is that we accompany the tasting of Bourru with chestnuts. Moreover, there is a party in Gironde, called Fête du Bourru and Chestnut! However, it can very well be accommodated with a small appetizer , for example small biscuits, pâté toasts accompanied by guindillas, sweet peppers of the Basque Country.

Where to find Bourru ?

On the Chartrons market, I come face to face with Bourru !

You will understand, we do not find this ephemeral drink everywhere and all the time. I advise you to go to specialized shops, markets in Gironde or the top of the top, on the areas that offer tastings! In any case, we will find only during the harvest period, otherwise it will take your trouble and wait until September.

Château Grand Brun, Cru artisan Médoc

For my part, I found on the Chartrons market and in La Mécocaine in Bruges . It is a winery offering wines, spirits, beers and even accessories to taste these delicious beverages. The choice in this shop is impressive! If you can not move, it is even possible to order online.

I loved testing this drink , both for its taste and its ephemeral side . It was also very effective during a meal with friends!

The Bourru to consume in moderation

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