Domaine du Bouchot: Pioneer in Organic and Biodynamic Pouilly-Fumé

Founded in 1987 by Rachel and Pascal Kerbiquet, Domaine du Bouchot is situated in Pouilly-sur-Loire, within the Pouilly-Fumé appellation. This estate has garnered attention for being the first organic-certified winery in the region in 2009, and later transitioning to biodynamic farming in 2012. Today, under the leadership of Antoine Gouffier, the domaine continues its commitment to producing high-quality, environmentally sustainable wines​.

Terroir and Vineyard Geology

The domaine covers 10 hectares of vineyards planted primarily with Sauvignon Blanc, the cornerstone of Pouilly-Fumé wines. The vineyards are located on the southwest-facing slopes of the Saint-Andelain hill, which benefits from diverse soil types. The soils are a mix of Caillottes, which are calcareous soils rich in fossilized marine organisms, and Terres Blanches, a marl and limestone mixture, both contributing to the wines’ mineral complexity and freshness. These soil types are ideal for producing vibrant, mineral-driven Sauvignon Blanc​.

Sustainable Winemaking Practices

Domaine du Bouchot has always prioritized sustainability. By transitioning to organic farming in the mid-1990s and adopting biodynamic practices in 2012, the estate emphasizes minimal intervention, natural treatments, and the promotion of biodiversity. This approach enhances the natural expression of the terroir in each bottle. The wines undergo gentle vinification, with extended lees aging in certain cuvées to add complexity and texture​.

Notable Wines

Domaine du Bouchot is known for producing elegant and precise Pouilly-Fumé wines. The estate’s key cuvées include:

• “Terres Blanches”: A classic expression of Sauvignon Blanc, offering crisp acidity and notes of citrus, pear, and subtle minerality.
• “Caillottes”: Made from vines grown on calcareous soils, this wine emphasizes the minerality typical of Pouilly-Fumé, with floral and stone fruit characteristics