Patrick Bouju — Domaine de la Bohème — Auvergne

Patrick Bouju is a prominent figure in the natural wine world, celebrated for his inventive, expressive, and often wild wines. His journey began in his native Auvergne, a volcanic region in central France, where he established Domaine de la Bohème in 2004. Bouju's approach is deeply personal and experimental, combining a commitment to organic farming with a restless creativity in the cellar. His wines have become a benchmark for what is possible when a winemaker embraces risk and intuition.

A Philosophy of Intuition and Naturalness

Bouju's philosophy is rooted in a desire to craft wines that are not just good, but alive. He believes in a hands-off approach that allows the grapes and the terroir to speak for themselves. The name of his domaine, "La Bohème," reflects his free-spirited and non-conformist attitude.

  • Organic & Biodynamic Farming: His vineyards have been farmed organically since the beginning, with a conversion to biodynamics. He treats his vines and soil with natural preparations, avoiding all chemical inputs to maintain a healthy and vibrant ecosystem.

  • Minimal Intervention: In the cellar, Bouju is a staunch advocate for a minimalist approach. All fermentations are carried out with native yeasts, and he avoids fining and filtration.

  • Zero Sulfur: Most of his wines are made with no added sulfur dioxide (SO2​), a risky but rewarding choice that allows for a more direct and unadulterated expression of the fruit.

The Vineyards and Terroir

Domaine de la Bohème is located in the Auvergne, a region with a unique terroir dominated by ancient volcanic activity.

  • Location: The vineyards are spread across a few small parcels around the village of Auvergne, France.

  • Vineyard Area: The domaine covers a small area of just a few hectares.

  • Grape Varieties: He works with both local and classic varieties, including Gamay d'Auvergne, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Gamay.

  • Soils: The terroir is a mosaic of volcanic soils, including basalt and granite, which give his wines a distinctive mineral quality, freshness, and a savory, often smoky, character.

Winemaking and Process

Bouju's winemaking is a dynamic and experimental process. He is known for his playful and collaborative style, often working with other winemakers.

  • Harvest & Pressing: Grapes are hand-harvested and meticulously sorted.

  • Vinification: He uses a variety of vessels, including fiberglass tanks and old oak barrels. He is well-known for his use of whole-cluster fermentation and carbonic maceration, which results in wines with vibrant fruit and a silky texture.

  • Collaborations: Patrick Bouju is also a celebrated négociant, working with high-quality organic grapes from other regions to create unique cuvées. His collaborations, often with friends and fellow winemakers, have produced some of the most sought-after bottles in the natural wine world.

Signature Wines to Discover

Patrick Bouju's wines are known for their bold labels, artistic flair, and unique, often wild, personalities.

  • Les Murs d'Issandouan: A pure Gamay from volcanic soils.

  • Marmiton: A light and fresh Gamay cuvée.

  • La Montée des Serfs: A pure Pinot Noir.

  • L'Oiseau de la Vallée: A co-fermented red and white blend.

  • P.I.N.O.T: A light and juicy Pinot Noir.

Visit & Connect

Domaine de la Bohème is a small, personal project. Visits are not generally possible, as Patrick is often traveling for collaborations.

  • Connect: The best way to follow his work is through his collaborations with other winemakers and by seeking out his highly coveted bottles at specialized natural wine bars and shops worldwide. His wines are a true reflection of his free spirit and talent.