Domaine Derain ‘Bourgogne Aligoté’

Domaine Derain ‘Bourgogne Aligoté’ is a classic Burgundian white wine crafted from Aligoté grapes. The grapes come from vines ranging from 35 to 50 years old, planted in the calcareous clay soils of Burgundy. This wine is a perfect example of the region’s charm, offering a fresh, crisp profile. Made with minimal intervention in the vineyard and the cellar, the care taken in producing this wine captures the essence of the Aligoté grape.

The ‘Bourgogne Aligoté’ has a bright, expressive nose, featuring light floral aromas with plenty of citrus and fruit-forward notes. It has a beautifully balanced acidity, refreshing and lively. The palate is clean and crisp, with a delicate minerality that hints at the wine’s terroir. Aged for 11 months in French oak barrels on the lees, this wine develops a roundness and complexity that complements its freshness. The result is a wine that is both vibrant and elegant, showcasing the best qualities of Burgundian white wines.

Domaine Derain

Domaine Derain is based in the Saint-Aubin region, just south of Beaune, and has a rich history of producing minimal intervention wines. The estate was founded by Dominique Derain in 1988 when he and his wife, Catherine, purchased 5.5 hectares. They immediately began practicing biodynamic farming and making their wines in a non-interventionist style, therefore allowing the natural characteristics of the land and grapes to shine through. These principles have been the foundation of the domaine, and they have remained committed to biodynamics and sustainability ever since.

The vineyards of Saint-Aubin are often overlooked in comparison to their famous neighbors, Chassagne-Montrachet and Puligny-Montrachet, but they produce wines of exceptional quality. Domaine Derain’s wines are often considered hidden gems in Burgundy, which offer incredible value for those in the know. Over the years, Julien Altaber, worked closely with Dominique and Catherine. Julien’s passion for biodynamics and non-interventionist practices eventually led him to start his own domaine, Sextant.

In recent years, Dominique Derain retired, passing the torch to Julien and Carole, who now run the domaine. Julien, having already established his Sextant winery, took over the operations. The wines are certified biodynamic by Ecocert, a certification they have held since 1989. This traditional approach reflects the estate’s long-standing commitment to organic and sustainable practices.