The Delormes of Domaine de la Mordorée are a lovely family, committed to their terroir in the broadest possible sense. For them 'terroir' is not merely an expression of geology or geography: rather it is a concept that embraces the totality of life in the place where they live and everything about the way they conduct their lives in that place. They consider themselves to be 'guardiens' of the local ecology, which is why they farm biodynamically, and why they have chosen 'la Mordorée' as their symbol.
Nothing could be more apt: 'la Mordorée' - the woodcock - is an endangered species. Its survival is dependent upon a fragile ecosystem that is rapidly being obliterated by 'development' of the countryside. Mordorée is an especially profound symbol because it is a very secretive, rarely seen bird that cannot survive without the dense cover of the mature woodlots that are now vanishing from the Mediterranean basin. It is ironic that the Delormes were first attracted to the region of Lirac as hunters. As winegrowers their awareness has changed, and they now seek to protect and preserve not just the woodcocks they used to hunt but the precious habitat where they live.
The reputation of Domaine de la Mordorée has never been higher. The estate is included in Robert Parkers epic tome "The World's Greatest Wine Estates", one of just 155 wineries to make the list. They produce magnificent wines from the appellations of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Lirac, Tavel, Côtes-du-Rhône and have recently added a Condrieu to the list. Across the board this estate produces wines with a stunning combination of depth, complexity, typicity and simple beauty.
Tragically, Christophe Delorme passed away in 2015. Intelligent, thoughtful, energetic and incredibly hard working, Christophe was a rare breed. His passion for excellence drove this estate to its current reputation and he is generally considered to be the guiding force behind the rising reputation of the Lirac and Tavel AOCs. He is survived by his father, brother, wife and daughter who all strive to carry on the estate’s work in his absence.
"I’ve yet to see these guys put a foot wrong, and regardless of the vintage, they’re able to make superb wines. In addition to their terrific Châteauneuf du Papes, they continue to raise the quality of their Lirac and Côtes du Rhône releases. Also, while these all have the ability to drink nicely on release, they age beautifully."
October 2015
Since the untimely death of Christophe Delorme last year, the winemaking at Domaine de la Mordorée has fallen to Rémy Chauvet, who was the cellar manager under Christophe for a number of years. Based on these 2015 barrel samples, the estate is obviously still in incredibly capable hands.
Jeb Dunnuck, October 2016
Under the leadership of young (20-something) Ambre Delorme, this historic Tavel estate continues to turn out a wide range of exemplary wines.
October 2019
Just north of Tavel, Lirac produces considerable quantities of rosé very similar to Tavel and full-blooded red wine, as well as some full-bodied dry white. Domaine de la Mordorée is one of the best producers.
Jancis Robinson,