DOMAINE DE LA MORDORÉE

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.

Reviews for this winery

"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,

... Domaine de la Mordorée emphasizes organic and biodynamic practices, with all wines certified biodynamic as of 2022. Trees are integral to the vineyard ecosystem for providing shade, with over 300 linden and oak trees replanted just last winter. Mordorée produces wines exclusively from its own vineyards, with no négociant business involved. The Lirac Blanc La Reine des Bois, which blends seven varieties led by Grenache Blanc, showed less impressively in 2021 compared to the riper 2022. The Tavel-based La Dame Rousse is a pleasant and simple Rosé, whereas the more serious La Reine de Bois stands out as one of the finest Rosés in the South of France – the 2022 and 2023 vintages are both noteworthy. The reds here are always made from fully destemmed grapes, resulting in a fruit-driven profile. The Châteauneuf-du-Pape offerings include the approachable La Dame Voyageuse, a cuvée created in 2014, and the more age-worthy and complex La Reine de Bois...

Nicolas Greinacher, June 2024

Situated in Tavel, Domaine de la Mordorée has undergone a measured transformation toward greater precision in both viticulture and vinification. The estate began its conversion to organic farming in 2010 and achieved certification by 2013. Biodynamic practices were subsequently introduced—initially on red varieties in 2019, then extended to whites and rosés from 2022.

Following the premature passing of her father, Ambre assumed responsibility for the estate at the age of 22. She initially worked alongside her grandfather in 2015, before assuming full leadership in collaboration with her mother and the long-standing team. Under her direction, the domaine initiated a strategic reduction of its vineyard holdings—from 60 hectares in 2023 to 42 hectares in 2024—aimed at enhancing precision and coherence across its core appellations: Tavel, Lirac and Côtes-du-Rhône. This transition also coincided with the conclusion of a fermage agreement with a family member who has since established his own estate.

Harvesting is carried out exclusively by hand, and fermentations are conducted using pied de cuve to promote native yeast populations and preserve the integrity of each site. Vineyard and cellar practices emphasize minimal intervention, balance and clarity of expression.

The 2023 vintage reflects a notable stylistic evolution. While shaped in part by climatic conditions, the wines exhibit less concentration and greater finesse. This direction aligns with Ambre’s contemporary vision for the estate, privileging transparency and precision over sheer density.

Yohan Castaing, October 2025