Our Commitment to Organic Farming
At Domaine de Cambis, organic farming is not a passing trend: it is a goal that the Perolari family has pursued since the very beginning, in 2002.
A Family Ambition Since 2002
When Annick and Alfred Perolari acquired the Domaine in 2002 in Berlou, they had a clear objective in mind: to transition to organic farming, or even biodynamics. This commitment is therefore not recent: it is inherent to the history of the Domaine.
Annick and Alfred tried biodynamics as soon as they arrived. But they quickly realized that it wouldn't be possible immediately: the vines had been poorly "accustomed" to previous practices, and the change would have been too abrupt — both for the plants and financially.
Reason therefore led them to postpone the conversion until later. But this delay was not a surrender: it became a true preparation phase.
Over Ten Years to Prepare the Ground
For over ten years, the Perolari family methodically prepared the vineyard so that it could, one day, embrace organic farming without suffering.
This transition phase consisted of:
- Abandoning certain vines that were too dangerous or unproductive
- Replanting other plots to rebalance them
- Restructuring the vineyard: modifying tractor paths, trellising vines, removing large stones and rocks that prevented the passage of mechanical tools like inter-row cultivators
- Drastically reducing the use of phytosanitary products
This decade also provided an opportunity to perfectly understand each plot: its needs, its vulnerabilities, its strengths. This detailed knowledge of the vineyard was crucial for a successful conversion when the time finally came.
Conversion Began in 2018
Once the new winery was completed in 2017 — a six-year project started in 2011 — the Perolari family could refocus its attention on cultivation. The conversion to organic farming officially began in the summer of 2018.
Three years later, after regulatory controls and certifications, Domaine de Cambis obtained Organic Farming certification for the 2021 vintage.
All wines produced since this date bear the official AB logo and the European organic logo Eurofeuille.
A Vineyard More Alive Than Ever
Today, the result of this long journey is visible in the plots. In the words of the Domaine itself:
« Our plots have never been as vibrant as they have been in recent years. They teem with insects and animals ranging from earthworms to bees foraging in the scrubland around the vines. »
This renewed biodiversity is a sign of living soil and restored balance. It confirms the wisdom of the choice made over 20 years ago.
Recognized Approach
Domaine de Cambis's environmental commitment has been recognized by its integration into the Haut-Languedoc Regional Natural Park, which brings together local stakeholders committed to preserving the natural and cultural heritage of the region.
This membership in the Regional Natural Park reinforces the Domaine's organic approach and places it within a territory and a community of producers sharing the same values.
Our Certifications
- AB Certification (French Organic Agriculture) since the 2021 vintage
- Eurofeuille (European organic logo)
- Member of the Haut-Languedoc Regional Natural Park
A Vision for the Future
For the Perolari family, organic conversion is not a destination: it is a stage on a longer journey. The initial goal — transitioning to biodynamics — remains on the horizon. The patience that guided the first conversion will also guide the next steps.