Boulard Bauquaire

Boulard-Bauquaire is a family estate of récoltants-manipulants in Cormicy. Cormicy is regarded as the northernmost wine-growing village in Champagne, about 15 kilometres north of Reims. The house is a member of the Vignerons Indépendants.

Family and vineyards

Denis Boulard settled in Cormicy in 1960 with two of his brothers, drawn by the quality of the soils. According to the Guide Hachette, he built up the estate during the 1960s and handed it over to his son Christophe in 2005. The family speaks of the eighth generation. Today Christophe Boulard and his son run the estate.

The 8 hectares of vines, planted with the three champagne grape varieties, lie across several areas: the Massif de Saint-Thierry (Cormicy, Hermonville), the Montagne de Reims (Trépail) and the Marne Valley (Monthurel, La Neuville-aux-Larris). The soil in the Massif de Saint-Thierry is sand over a chalk subsoil and gives wines with fruity aromas and plenty of freshness. Trépail is a premier cru.

Approach and cuvées

The estate is certified HVE (Haute Valeur Environnementale) and VDC (sustainable viticulture in Champagne). Every stage of vinification is carried out on the estate using the traditional champagne method, from pressing to assemblage. This includes both a traditional and a modern press. The range comprises six champagnes:

• Tradition Brut
• Carte Noire, Blanc de Noirs: 50% Pinot Noir and 50% Pinot Meunier
• Vieilles Vignes, Blanc de Blancs (Trépail)
• Grande Réserve Brut
• Brut Rosé
• Cuvée Mélanie

Visit and tasting

The estate welcomes visitors all year round, both in the cellar (cuverie, presses) and in the vineyard. The tour is followed by a tasting of three or four champagnes, for example an assemblage, a blanc de blancs and a rosé. Opening hours are Monday to Friday from 8.30 am to 12 noon and from 1.30 to 5 pm, and at weekends by reservation. Booking in advance is recommended.