Camin Larredya

Jean-Marc Grussaute from Camin Larredya is a legend within his region and is gaining plenty of fans among the sommelier community in France. Jean-Marc and his mother run the show and farm 'their hill' together. The 9 hectares of vines and farm have been owned by the family since the early 1900s, with most of the current vines were planted in 1970s by Jean-Marc’s father. Organic farming has been the norm here from 2007 onwards, certified in 2010, and turning to biodynamic farming in 2016. The vineyard is classically local in varietal plantings: 65% Petit Manseng, 27% Gros Manseng, 8% Petit Courbu, and Camaralet. The vineyard sits at 300m altitude, with soils of silica-clay and subsoils of puddingstone.  Precision is life here, every action serves the "purpose of the terroir and its continuity", according to Jean-Marc, who respects the soil’s health and its life. It's essential for him that the roots go deep to express the terroirs in the final wine. Jean-Marc works the soils, grow cereals or pulses in between the rows, and uses natural compost when needed. The singularity and honesty of his wines come from permanent attention.