Négrette

Quick Facts

Berry Color: Blue-black
Skin Thickness: Thin
Ripening: Early
Vigor: Moderate
Yield: Moderate
Character: Soft, fruity, violet aromatics
Region: Almost exclusively Fronton

Overview

Négrette is a uniquely southwestern French grape variety found almost exclusively in the Fronton appellation north of Toulouse, producing soft, fruity red wines with distinctive violet aromatics. Unlike the tannic powerhouses of nearby regions, Négrette creates approachable, early-drinking wines with a perfumed character that sets them apart from other French reds. The variety’s thin skins and moderate tannins produce wines meant for pleasure rather than contemplation. For enologists, Négrette represents study in producing accessible, aromatic red wines and the importance of preserving mono-regional varieties.

Etymology and History

Name Origin

Négrette: From “négret” (small/black)

Reference: Dark berry color

Historical Development

Ancient Fronton cultivation
Traditional local variety
Legend: Knights Templar origin
Modern: Almost entirely Fronton
Growing appreciation

Regional Concentration

Unique Situation: 95%+ in one appellation

Reason: Perfect local adaptation

Preservation: Fronton identity

Viticulture

Vine Characteristics

Growth Habit: Moderate vigor

Leaf Shape: Medium

Cluster: Medium; compact

Berry: Small; thin-skinned; very dark

Growing Requirements

Climate: Warm; Toulouse influence

Soil Preference: Boulbènes (gravel/sand)

Training: Various methods

Challenge: Thin skins; rot risk

Phenological Stages

Stage	Timing
Bud break	Mid-April
Flowering	Late May
Véraison	Late July
Harvest	September (early)

Boulbènes Terroir

Composition: Gravel over clay

Character: Well-drained

Impact: Concentrates flavors

Wine Profile

Appearance

Color: Medium ruby to purple
Intensity: Medium
Evolution: Best young

Aromatic Profile

Primary Aromas:

Violet (signature)
Red fruits (raspberry, cherry)
Licorice
Black pepper
Floral

Character: Perfumed; distinctive

Palate Characteristics

Structure:

Light to medium body
Soft tannins
Fresh acidity
Fruity, accessible

Texture: Smooth; supple; easy

Finish: Medium; floral persistence

Regional Expression

Fronton AOC

Status: Only significant appellation

Requirements: 50-70% Négrette typical

Partners: Cabernet Franc, Syrah, others

Character: Benchmark expressions

Winemaking Considerations

Fermentation

Temperature: Cool to moderate

Duration: Short to medium

Goal: Preserve aromatics; soft tannins

Thin Skin Challenge

Issue: Limited extraction potential

Approach: Gentle handling

Result: Soft, aromatic wines

Blending

Partners: Cabernet Franc (structure); Syrah (depth)

Balance: Négrette dominance for character

Result: Complete wines

Early Drinking

Style: Immediate pleasure

Aging: 1-5 years typical

Character: Fresh; fruit-forward

Food Pairing

Traditional Matches

Regional Cuisine:

Cassoulet (lighter style)
Toulouse sausage
Duck dishes
Regional charcuterie

Character: Food-friendly; versatile

Temperature

Serving: Slightly cool (15-16°C)

Key Producers

Fronton Estates

Château Bellevue la Forêt: Quality benchmark

Domaine Roumagnac: Traditional quality

Various Fronton estates: Regional producers

Market Position

Production Statistics

France: ~1,200 hectares

Concentration: 95%+ in Fronton

Trend: Stable

Pricing

Level	Price (€)
Entry	€6-10
Quality	€10-18
Premium	€15-28

Market Position

Recognition: Growing; still limited

Strength: Unique character; value

Challenge: Unfamiliarity outside region

The Violet Signature

Distinctive Element

Aroma: True violet perfume

Compound: Specific aromatic profile

Unique: Among red varieties

Expression

Dominance: Clear violet note

Persistence: Through palate

Identity: Variety marker

Comparison with Southwest Reds

Variety	Tannin	Character	Aging
Négrette	Soft	Violet, fruity	Short
Malbec	Medium-high	Dark fruit	Medium
Tannat	Very high	Powerful	Long
Fer Servadou	High	Rustic, mineral	Medium

Conclusion

Négrette offers a refreshing alternative within southwestern France’s red wine landscape—soft, perfumed wines dominated by violet aromatics that prioritize immediate pleasure over complexity. For enologists, Négrette demonstrates the value of preserving mono-regional varieties and producing accessible wines for everyday enjoyment. The variety’s concentration in Fronton creates a unique identity for the appellation, while its distinctive violet character makes it instantly recognizable among French reds. As interest in indigenous varieties grows, Négrette deserves wider recognition for its charming, approachable character.

References

Robinson, J., Harding, J., & Vouillamoz, J. (2012). “Wine Grapes.” Ecco/HarperCollins. Publisher Link
VIVC Database. Variety Information.

Last updated: January 13, 2026