Eloi Gros

In some cases, the natural circumstances of a vineyard dictate the approach to farming. For example, the steep slopes on which Eloi Gros cultivates the local Gamay grape variety simply do not permit the use of heavy machinery. Manual, traditional methods of ploughing and spraying are therefore imperative. Eloi’s gentle farming methods have also enabled a variety of flora and fauna to accompany the vines, including fig, almond and peach trees, keeping the land flourishing and alive.

Eloi grew up in Blacé in the Beaujolais region, where he had the opportunity to learn the traditional and organic wine-growing techniques from his parents, who run the well-respected winery ‘Domaine des Terres Vivantes’. But instead of following in his family’s footsteps directly, Eloi took a detour through a short-lived career in business and consultancy. It was his discovery of renown natural wine producers from Jura and his home region of Beaujolais, guided by an enthusiastic wine merchant, that rekindled his love for wine and winemaking. Soon afterwards, Eloi went to work for Marcel Lapierre and Michel Guignier, true Bojo pioneers, securing the position of cellar master and vineyard manager at the former’s domain.

In 2022, Eloi started producing his own wines from his own vineyards and established his base in his parents’ cellar. Whereas he labelled his first vintage under the infamous denomination ‘Vin de France’, his wines now proudly carry the title ‘Vaux-en-Beaujolais’, a municipality within the Beaujolais region.

Eloi produces original single-vineyard wines from a vineyard called ‘Sous Montmain’. The old vines in this east-facing vineyard yield structured, full-bodied Beaujolais cru wines. Eloi’s minimalist approach to winemaking is also reflected in his winemaking, in which he makes little use of intervention and manipulation. He prefers whole-cluster, semi-carbonic maceration using indigenous yeasts and spontaneous fermentation.

Currently, Eloi’s winery is expanding and producing wine from an increasing number of vineyards. His selection criteria for vineyards are remarkably strict. For instance, the vineyards must be secluded from other agricultural areas to prevent cross-contamination from conventional farming practices. Eloi also prefers vineyards at higher altitudes to ensure freshness despite hotter temperatures.

We are delighted to regularly enjoy Eloi’s wines and reflect on traditional ways of life. It is interesting to consider that, especially when we are ambitious, we sometimes need to take a few detours to appreciate our heritage and reconnect with our roots.