# L'Equilibriste (2023)

- **Producer:** Domaine De La Crau - Marc Soyard
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** 100% Chardonnay
- **Region:** Burgundy, France
- **Style:** Natural
- **Alcohol:** 13.0%
- **Average price:** €43
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 10–13 °C

## About this wine

L'Equilibriste 2023 from Domaine De La Crau, crafted by Marc Soyard, is a 100% Chardonnay from the Bourgogne Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée. The wine's name, 'The Tightrope Walker,' signifies its balanced, natural winemaking approach, characterized by the absence of added sulfites. Marc Soyard, a winemaker with experience at Domaine Bizot, leads Domaine de la Cras, an estate owned by the city of Dijon, where his philosophy centers on minimal intervention to express the terroir. The grapes are grown on a 1-hectare parcel with clay-limestone soil in the Coteaux de Dijon.

## Interesting facts

- The name 'L'Equilibriste' translates to 'The Tightrope Walker,' reflecting the wine's balanced, natural style.
- This wine is made with zero added sulfites, a rarity in Burgundy.
- Domaine de la Cras is uniquely owned by the city of Dijon.
- Marc Soyard gained experience at the renowned Domaine Bizot.

## Food pairing

The wine's present acidity and clean profile cut through the richness of seafood and creamy sauces, while its subtle complexity complements delicate flavors. The absence of added sulfites allows the pure fruit and mineral notes to interact harmoniously with food.

## Wine making process

L'Equilibriste is produced using 100% Chardonnay grapes from Domaine de la Cras. The winemaking is characterized by a philosophy of minimal intervention, with a key technique being the complete absence of added sulfites. Fermentation is carried out using only native yeasts, allowing the natural microflora of the vineyard to play a crucial role in developing the wine's character. Following fermentation, the wine is aged for 12 months in wooden barrels, a process known as 'élevage sous bois,' which contributes to its texture and finish. The domaine employs organic and biodynamic viticultural practices, underscoring a commitment to sustainability and terroir expression.