Benoit Camus Vagabond

Benoit Camus, a dynamic and energetic individual, cultivates Gamay from vines up to sixty years old across several parcels and terroirs around the village of Ville-sur-Jarnioux in Beaujolais. Spending two weeks as whole bunches in concrete, the grapes are then pressed off to vats for a short élevage. In a cooler vintage, the wine exhibits an appealing brightness in its cherry-toned fruit. The old vines and complex mix of soils contribute unexpected depth and structure. Easygoing and full of charm, this Beaujolais captures the essence of why many fall in love with the region. It pairs wonderfully with saucisson or a hearty piece of cheese.

Benoit Camus, a true livewire, manages four hectares spread across eight parcels in southern Beaujolais. The terroir, predominantly limestone with elements of clay, granite, and marl, is tended organically and by hand. Benoit lives in a caravan hidden among the vines, lovingly referred to as 'Chateau Roulant.' With three and a half hectares planted with old Gamay vines and a small plot of Chardonnay, Benoit's first harvest in the region was in 2006. In the cellar, he keeps things simple, allowing fermentation and élevage to occur in concrete and cuve with no additives at any stage. Despite not labeling his wines until recently, Benoit's focus remains on producing pure, nourishing wines for all to enjoy.