In an appellation that continues to grow in prestige and popularity, we have searched far and wide to find the top domaines of Pouilly-Fumé. Today I would like to introduce you to a producer named Antoine Gouffier, the man in charge of the stunning Domaine du Bouchot. Shaking things up along with maintaining the traditional cuvees, the four wines of his domaine are not to be missed.
About Domaine Bouchot
A family estate since 1966, Domaine du Bouchot is 10 hectares in size and has been crafting wine for decades, with the latest owner, Antoine Gouffier, shaking things up. Born and raised in the villages of Pouilly-Fumé, as a young adult Antoine chose to embark on a decade of backpacking around the world. Traipsing through America, Argentina, Africa, and even the Middle East he learnt new methods and ways of life outside of the borders of France. In America he began with learning all about the three-tier system from various wine importers, then his time in Argentina was spent with Michel Rolland and his right-hand-man Thierry Haberer of Clos de los Siete wine estate. Once arriving in South Africa, Antoine worked and learned from Duncan Savage, and as a sweet surprise it was where he met Ilse Nel, now his wife.
Upon returning home to France and taking over from the Kerbiquet family at Domaine du Bouchot in 2018, Antoine began to make his mark by planting new vines, renovating the cellar and purchasing new equipment and amphorae. He also began experimenting with old oak barrels with his wines.
Fortunately, the domaine had been certified organic since 2009, allowing Antoine to step into a vineyard that shares his beliefs already. Being the first domaine to be certified Organic in the Pouilly-Fumé appellation, Antoine continued to push biodiversity and the correlation to the Lunar calendar to achieve Biodynamic certification soon after he took over. With the help of his mentor and expert in biodynamics, Pascal Kerbiquet, he continues to champion the thriving nature in his vineyards.
The vines are all planted to Sauvignon Blanc and sit on the south-west slope of the hill next to the village of Saint Andelain. Here the soils consist of clay and limestone from the Kimmeridgian era, perfect to bring the light freshness to Sauvignon. His vinification method includes minimal intervention, with a focus on clarity of the terroir, producing wines of vibrant elegance.
As Pouilly-Fumé continues to raise itself to new heights, do not delay in purchasing a few of these stunning new wines.
