Domaine Ballorin
Gilles Ballorain is a striking example of how a person can radically change their life. Despite the fact that his father worked as a railway worker rather than a winemaker, Gilles found his calling in the world of wine. His journey in winemaking began in the 1990s. Initially, he held the position of export manager, then became marketing director, and later rose to the position of commercial director at the Antonin Rode estate. Although his work was office-based, Gilles actively participated in harvest collection and frequently visited the cellars, which gradually captivated him with the magic of winemaking. In 2004, Gilles made a fateful decision to leave his corporate career and start working on his own land. His first acquisition was 0.2 hectares in Chenôve, near Dijon. Soon after, he added another 0.4 hectares in Marsannay. By 2005, he was harvesting from 3.5 hectares, and by 2014, his holdings had expanded to 5 hectares. Today, the estate covers 6 hectares, located exclusively in Côte de Nuits. The vineyards stretch from Comblanchien through Nuits-Saint-Georges and Morey-Saint-Denis to Fisseny and Marsannay. The collection even includes some prestigious Corton Grand Cru. The first vintage of 2005 was a turning point, reinforcing Gilles’ confidence in the rightness of his chosen path. The harvest that year proved excellent, providing numerous opportunities for development. In his estate, Gilles adheres to strict principles. Since 2005, he has used exclusively biodynamic methods, having undergone certification. He pays special attention to agroforestry, planting trees and shrubs both around and within the vineyards. He works in the vineyards using a horse. The same philosophy continues in the cellar. Interestingly, in addition to winemaking, Gilles is a professional diving instructor. This is his second passion after wine. Perhaps in the future, management of the estate will pass to his daughter, who has been working in the vineyards for many years and participates in the winemaking process alongside her father.
