HOW THEY GOT HERE
The history of Domaine M. & S. Bouchet is rooted in one of the Loire’s most influential biodynamic lineages. The estate’s origins trace back to François Bouchet, a pioneering figure in biodynamic viticulture who began experimenting with the method in 1962 and acted as a consultant to estates such as Coulée de Serrant, Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, and Domaine Leroy.
In 1990, Matthieu and Sylvanie Bouchet assumed control of the family estate (formerly known as Château Gaillard) in Montreuil-Bellay, choosing to continue and deepen their father’s biodynamic approach. Their commitment to this way of farming — which rejects chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and most additives — is reflected in every stage of production.
Rather than adhering to traditional Saumur AOC regulations, the Bouchets opted since 2008 to label their wines as Vin de France, a strategic choice that gives them freedom in vineyard and cellar decisions without the constraints of appellation rules.
The estate’s old vines — some more than 80 years old — naturally yield very low quantities. This, combined with biodynamic health and meticulous vineyard work, means M. & S. Bouchet produces only a few thousand cases annually, making their wines inherently limited and site-specific.
