The name “Pur Jus” (pure juice) is a clear statement of intent. Indeed, if Xavier Bénier is known for anything, it is for being an ardent advocate of natural wines. A trend that is popular today, but when he started, his approach was almost an act of rebellion.
After graduating from the Wine Academy of Beaune in the early 1990s, Xavier caused a stir with his commitment to minimal intervention. Insisting on producing wines without fining or filtering, with little or no added sulphur, was considered a genuine sacrilege by any traditional winemaker in the area.
In 2003, he inherited a hectare of vineyards from his grandfather in Saint-Julien, in the Beaujolais region of France, and there he applied all his cathartic knowledge. Over the years, he expanded his domain to about 6.5 hectares and, today, he has become a reference name in the world of natural wine.
His wines are distinguished by their authenticity and respect for natural winemaking methods, reflecting the unique characteristics of the Beaujolais terroir. His vineyards are cultivated without chemicals or pesticides, following natural and biodynamic principles, and his winemaking approach is based on fermentations with native yeasts, unfiltered processes, and minimal or even zero sulphur addition.
His Pur Jus Beaujolais-Villages is a natural red wine made from the gamay variety, produced in the Beaujolais-Villages appellation. It is a carbonic maceration without sulphites, not even at bottling, notable for its freshness, fruity character, and a slight texture on the palate that makes it especially savoury. Pur Jus is a flavourful experience that reflects Xavier Bénier's philosophy: natural, honest, and delicious.