Senegalese-American Creator Behind Oscar-Submitted Film “Baamum Nafi” Debuts Two Terroir-Driven Wines from Historic Roussillon Estate
April 20, 2026 (New York, NY) — Maba Ba, the Senegalese-born, New York-based filmmaker, writer, and producer behind Senegal’s 2021 Oscar submission Baamum Nafi, is continuing his exploration and love of storytelling through the ritual, generosity, and mythology of winemaking. Flying Whale Wine, Ba’s newest endeavor, is a boutique wine brand that bridges African mythology, French terroir, and the art of storytelling. The wines were crafted in partnership with winemaker Didier Rodriguez at Domaine Sol Payre, a more than 110 year old family estate in Elne, Roussillon. Together Ba and Rodriguez have created Flying Whale Wine and proudly introduce two flagship bottles: The Gold, a supple red blend, and The Rosegold, a mineral-driven rosé..
A Wine Born from Myth and Migration
Flying Whale Wine takes its name and inspiration from the Dogon legend of the Nommo, a cosmic visitor who arrived on Earth in a whale-shaped vessel to restore balance. The story, which carries scientific insight that predates modern astronomy, reflects a deeper African lineage of knowledge and imagination.
“The Dogon myth and my personal path meet in this bottle,” says Ba. “I grew up between Senegal, France, and the US. My work as a filmmaker has always centered people who move across worlds. Flying Whale comes from that same place, and from the idea of ‘breach,’ the moment you rise above what shaped you and create something with impact.”
Two Wines, One Philosophy
The Gold ($67.99) is a warm, ripe red blend of 60% Grenache Noir and 40% Syrah, crafted with medium extraction and supple tannins. Aged in stainless steel with no oak influence, it offers an organic base wine (IGP OC Rouge BIO 2022 Baixas) at 14% alcohol – big body, little tannins. The Gold has notes of dark cherry, blackberries, and a little bit of spice. It’s earthy, and has a floral vibe that makes it feel grounded and fresh at the same time. The wine is smooth and full bodied, with juicy dark fruits, a hint of chocolate, and something savory.
The Rosegold ($32.99) is a pressed-style rosé blending 70% Grenache and 30% Syrah at 13% alcohol. Dry and full-bodied with a mineral, saline line, it’s designed for those who typically reach for red wine but crave something brighter. A nose of fresh strawberries, peach, and a splash of citrus bring The Rosegold to life, and a light floral touch offers a crisp and refreshing finish. The wine is medium to full bodied with hints of stone fruits, watermelon and citrus zest.
Both wines honor traditional southern French winemaking while reflecting Ba’s commitment to authenticity, sustainability, and story.
From Film Set to Vineyard
Ba’s creative universe spans multiple mediums. Through JoyeDidi, the production company he co-founded, he produced Baamum Nafi, which won Best First Feature and the Golden Leopard at the Locarno International Film Festival. He also produced Samedi Cinema, which premiered at Venice and Toronto International Film Festivals, and has toured films across rural Senegal using an inflatable outdoor cinema.
His work extends to music, writing, and social innovation. His essays and podcast Black in This World examine masculinity, trauma, and diaspora consciousness, while his debut 16-track album explores heartbreak and emotional reinvention.
“Across every medium, my work reflects one throughline: using story, ritual, and meaning to reconnect people to themselves, to one another, and to their origins,” Ba says.
Built with Intention
Flying Whale Wine has been built slowly and deliberately. Ba secured initial menu placements at marquee NYC restaurants including ABC V, Kitchen, & Conina, Harlem Wine Gallery, Scarpetta, and Bobby Van’s, as well as showcasing at both the Charleston and Aspen Food & Wine Classic events. The brand is now available nationally through ReserveBar and select specialty wine shops, with logistics handled by Park Street.
“Flying Whale is built for people who value story and craft,” says Ba. “The diaspora. Creative communities. Diners who follow chefs. People who want something real and rooted without pretense.”
The brand’s tagline – “Sip and Tell”- reflects Ba’s belief that wine, like film, is best experienced together, sparking conversation and connection.
From Anonymous to Anonymous
Flying Whale Wine embodies Ba’s philosophy of “from anonymous to anonymous,” signifying a connection of quiet generosity and story-sharing. Proceeds from every bottle of Flying Whale are donated to global charities supporting education.
For more information, please visit: www.flyingwhalewine.com or follow on Instagram at @flyingwhalewine.
About Flying Whale Wine
Flying Whale Wine is a boutique wine project created by filmmaker and producer Maba Ba in collaboration with winemaker Didier Rodriguez at Domaine Sol Payre in Roussillon, France. Inspired by Dogon cosmology, the collection combines terroir-driven winemaking with a commitment to generosity, sustainability, and myth-inspired storytelling. Flying Whale Wines are available via the Flying Whale website, ReserverBar.com, and at top New York City restaurants, including Tatiana, ABC Kitchen, Scarpetta, and more. Learn more at www.flyingwhalewine.com.
