Surface area 8.5 ha. estate vineyards + négoce
Natural since 2004

About the winemaker
Patrick Bouju, once an IBM engineer, has become something of a cult legend in a remarkably short time. At Domaine la Bohème, he’s been tending a handful of small plots in the Auvergne an under-the-radar wine region in central France since 2004. The quiet obscurity of Auvergne seems to suit Patrick’s singular, personal approach to winemaking. Alongside his partner Justine, the two of them shoulder nearly all the work themselves from vineyard to cellar to office. Patrick and Justine run their small-scale winery as a true partnership, guided by instinct and conviction, shaping Domaine la Bohème into one of the most distinctive voices among European natural wine producers.

About the vineyard
Patrick’s vineyards are scattered around Saint-Georges-sur-Allier, in the commune of Glaines-Montaigut, with some parcels stretching back 120 years. While a variety of Gamay including Gamay d’Auvergne forms the backbone here, the vineyards are also dotted with little-known, heirloom grapes like Mirefleurien and Limberger. Many of these old varieties are interplanted, finding their way into the wines as blends that lend extra depth and character to each bottle. From day one, Patrick has refused all chemical inputs in both vineyard and cellar, and he never adds sulphites. Recent years have brought tough harvests, so Patrick has also sourced grapes from fellow low-intervention producers he and Justine trust, drawing fruit from southern France, Beaujolais, and the Loire. However, his commitment to organic vineyards and sustainable viticulture is unwavering, no matter the origin.

About the wines
Minerality and savoury spice are the through-lines in Patrick’s wines, and his artisan winemaker’s touch ensures that every wine feels vibrant, drinkable, and full of energy. The estate wines are deeply rooted in Auvergne’s identity, while his bottlings from purchased fruit still channel that same peppery brightness and zest you find in his domaine-grown cuvées.

Instagram Patrick Bouju
Wineterroirs profile Patrick Bouju
Domaine La Bohème website