# Le Ban (2023)

- **Producer:** Domaine Derain
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** 100% Pinot Noir
- **Region:** Burgundy, France
- **Style:** Natural
- **Alcohol:** 12.5%
- **Average price:** €40
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** red cherry, red plum, raspberry, strawberry, black cherry, vanilla, cloves, mushroom, earth, forest floor

## About this wine

Le Ban is a 2023 red wine from Domaine Derain, produced in the Saint-Aubin Appellation d'Origine Protégée in Burgundy, France. It is made from 100% Pinot Noir grapes grown on biodynamic principles. The domaine, now led by Julien Altaber and Carole Schwab, upholds the minimal intervention philosophy established by founder Dominique Derain. The grapes are sourced from south-facing hillsides with a mix of clay-limestone and gravelly soils, featuring both older and younger vine parcels. This wine represents a sincere and precise expression of its Burgundian terroir.

## Interesting facts

- The vineyard combines old vines (approx. 60 years) with younger ones (approx. 7 years).
- Grapes are grown on biodynamic principles, a hallmark of Domaine Derain.
- The wine is made by Julien Altaber, a protégé of founder Dominique Derain.
- Saint-Aubin is a smaller, often overlooked appellation in Burgundy.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium-light body and bright acidity make it versatile. Its earthy and forest fruit notes complement game and poultry, while the acidity can cut through richer sauces and fats. The subtle tannins provide structure without overpowering delicate flavors.

## Wine making process

Le Ban is produced using biodynamic viticulture. Grapes are hand-harvested and then undergo fermentation in conical wooden vats. A significant portion (80%) of the grapes are destemmed before an 18-day maceration period. Following fermentation, the wine is aged for 11 months in 228-liter French oak barrels. This process emphasizes minimal intervention to allow the natural characteristics of the Pinot Noir and the Saint-Aubin terroir to shine through.