Mordoree, Domaine de la
Summary
Domaine de la Mordorée is a 60-hectare family estate in the southern Rhône Valley with significant holdings in Châteauneuf-du-Pape and Tavel, producing traditional Grenache-based reds and distinguished rosés from vineyards characterized by heat-retaining galets roulés and limestone-sandy soils. Their winemaking philosophy emphasizes certified organic viticulture, hand harvesting, and minimal intervention during vinification in concrete and oak vessels, preserving the authentic expression of each appellation while maintaining the region's time-honored traditions.
Heritage & Leadership
Domaine de la Mordorée was established in 1986 by Christophe Delorme and his father Francis in the southern Rhône Valley. The name "Mordorée" references the woodcock, a game bird known for its distinctive plumage color that the Delormes, avid hunters, admired. The estate faced a significant transition in 2015 following the unexpected passing of Christophe Delorme at age 52. His sister, Madeleine Delorme, subsequently took over management of the domaine, continuing the family legacy while maintaining the quality standards established by her brother. Under Madeleine's direction, the estate has preserved its commitment to the winemaking principles that earned Domaine de la Mordorée recognition within the southern Rhône. The family's dedication to their craft spans two generations, with the transition of leadership representing both continuity and evolution in their approach to viticulture and winemaking.
Vineyards & Wines
Domaine de la Mordorée encompasses 60 hectares of vineyards spread across five southern Rhône appellations: Tavel, Lirac, Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Côtes du Rhône, and Condrieu. The estate holds 15 hectares in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, with parcels situated on galets roulés (rounded stones) that provide excellent drainage and heat retention. Their Tavel vineyards, covering approximately 10 hectares, grow in sandy soils mixed with limestone, contributing to the distinctive character of their rosé wines. The domaine cultivates traditional Rhône varieties, with Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre predominating in their red wines, while their Tavel rosé incorporates Grenache, Cinsault, Syrah, Mourvèdre, and Bourboulenc. The estate received organic certification in 2013, following years of sustainable farming practices. Their portfolio includes the "La Reine des Bois" (Queen of the Woods) cuvée produced across multiple appellations, representing their premium offering with restricted yields and careful selection.
Philosophy & Practice
Domaine de la Mordorée adheres to a philosophy centered on expressing terroir through minimal intervention. Their certified organic practices include the elimination of synthetic chemicals, instead utilizing natural composts and cover crops to maintain soil health. Harvest is conducted entirely by hand, with rigorous sorting both in the vineyard and at the winery. In the cellar, the domaine employs temperature-controlled fermentation in a combination of concrete tanks and stainless steel, depending on the wine. Their red wines typically undergo extended maceration periods to extract optimal color and structure. For aging, the estate uses a combination of vessels: concrete tanks for freshness, large oak foudres for gentle oxidation, and smaller barrels for structure in their top cuvées. The percentage of new oak remains moderate, even for premium wines, to preserve fruit expression. Bottling occurs with minimal filtration to maintain complexity and aging potential. This methodical approach from vineyard to bottle reflects the domaine's commitment to producing wines that authentically represent their southern Rhône origins.