David Duband
Summary
David Duband operates his independent 17-20 hectare domaine across prestigious Burgundian appellations, focusing primarily on Pinot Noir from limestone-clay soils with many vines exceeding 50 years of age. His winemaking philosophy emphasizes organic farming, indigenous yeast fermentations with significant whole cluster inclusion, and vineyard-specific approaches tailored to each site's unique character rather than applying uniform techniques.
Heritage & Leadership
David Duband established his eponymous domaine in 1991 in the village of Chevannes in the Hautes-Côtes de Nuits region of Burgundy. He began his winemaking journey with approximately 3 hectares of family vineyards, which had previously been contracted to sell grapes to larger négociants in the region. His first commercial vintage was produced that same year, marking the beginning of what would become a significant presence in the Côte d'Or.
The domaine remains owned and operated by David Duband himself, who serves as both proprietor and winemaker. A pivotal development in the domaine's history occurred in the mid-2000s when Duband formed a partnership with François Feuillet, a Burgundy enthusiast and businessman. This collaboration provided the financial foundation that allowed Duband to substantially expand his vineyard holdings while maintaining control over winemaking decisions and domaine direction.
From the initial 3 hectares, the domaine has grown considerably over three decades. Today, Duband manages approximately 17-20 hectares of vineyards spread across multiple appellations in the Côte de Nuits and Côte de Beaune, representing a significant expansion from his original family holdings.
Vineyards & Wines
The Domaine David Duband portfolio encompasses an impressive range of vineyard sites throughout Burgundy's most prestigious terroirs. His holdings include parcels in several Grand Cru vineyards including Charmes-Chambertin, Clos de la Roche, Echézeaux, and Latricières-Chambertin. The domaine also produces wines from Premier Cru vineyards in Nuits-Saint-Georges, Morey-Saint-Denis, Chambolle-Musigny, and Gevrey-Chambertin, creating a comprehensive representation of the Côte de Nuits.
Many of Duband's vineyard parcels feature older vines, with some sections containing vines over 50 years old. These mature plantings are situated primarily on the limestone and clay soils typical of the Côte d'Or, providing the foundation for wines that express their specific terroirs.
The domaine focuses predominantly on Pinot Noir, which constitutes the vast majority of production across all appellations. Duband also produces a small amount of white wine from Chardonnay, primarily from vineyards in the Hautes-Côtes de Nuits. This concentration on Burgundy's two noble varieties allows for specialized expertise in their cultivation and vinification.
Philosophy & Practice
Over the years, Duband's winemaking approach has evolved significantly. His current methods reflect a commitment to expressing vineyard character through thoughtful, less interventionist techniques. The domaine has transitioned to organic farming practices across its vineyards, emphasizing sustainable viticulture throughout the growing season.
In the winery, Duband typically employs a high percentage of whole clusters during fermentation, often ranging from 30-100% depending on the vineyard and vintage. Fermentation takes place in open-top wooden vats using indigenous yeasts, allowing for natural expression of the fruit. This approach continues with his oak regimen, where new oak usage has been reduced over time, with most wines seeing around 30-40% new oak, while Grand Crus may receive slightly more.
The domaine's cellar practices emphasize minimal intervention, with light filtration applied only when necessary. This hands-off approach in the winery complements the careful work in the vineyards, resulting in wines that reflect both their place of origin and Duband's refined winemaking philosophy.