Catherine & Dominique Derain are biodynamic producers situated in the town of Saint-Aubin in the Cote de Beaune. Dominique began his wine career as a barrel maker, but decided to study winemaking instead. He enrolled into the school in Beaune where he met his then wife, Catherine (they parted several years ago but continue to share the facility in Saint-Aubin - Catherine looks after the paperwork; Dominique, the vines and cellar). In 1988 they purchased 5.5 hectares of vines and made the decision to make their wines biodynamically and with as little intervention as possible. 'Le Ban' is from vines situated on east facing slopes of limestone, clay and gravel, the grapes are handpicked and 90% are destemmed. After fermentation the wine is aged in old oak casks for up to 18 months. This sulphur-free Pinot Noir is a model Cote de Beaune with lively acidity and bags of cherry flavours.
A bright cherry-red in the glass. Appealing aromas of cherry blossom and wild strawberries. An expressive palate with racy acidity and juicy red-fruit notes. The finish is lively and fresh and the tannins perfectly balanced, making this a great food wine. Try with gratinée Lyonnaise, Rigodon Bouguignon (ham flan) or a hare terrine.