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Domaine DIRLER-CADE

Alsace

Organic and Biodynamic certified

Dirler Cade La-Heisse-Wanne-dans-le-Grand-Cru-Kessler-scaled.jpg
Dirler Cade La-Heisse-Wanne-dans-le-Grand-Cru-Kessler-scaled.jpg
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Much like many success stories in the French wine industry, love and marriage has played an important part in establishing great domaines. The marriage of Jean Dirler and Ludivine Cade in 2000 represented the union of two historic Alsatian winegrowing families, carrying forward a family legacy of producing exceptional wines from some of Alsace’s most prized vineyards, creating Domaine Dirler-Cadé.

 

The Jean Dirler estate was established in 1871 by its namesake, Jean Dirler. Today, the estate is run by fifth-generation Jean, continuing the family tradition in the small village of Bergholtz, nestled at the foot of the Vosges Mountains. His wife, Ludvine Cade, comes from an impressive winemaking lineage as well, with her family owning vineyards in nearby Guebwiller, historically known as Domaine Hell-Cade.

 

Together, they manage 18 hectares of vineyards, almost half of which are classified as Grand Cru—a significant achievement considering that only about 5% of Alsace vineyards have this prestigious designation. Although there is a considered focus on white varietals, mastering the noble Riesling, Muscat, Gewurztraminer and Pinot Gris, they also produce some Pinot Gris based Cremant, a unique Sylvaner and a small amount of Pinot Noir, all farmed biodynamically since 1998. The conversion to biodynamics was a relatively early one in the landscape of French wine, and cemented the domaine as one of the earliest members of Biodyvin (along with Zind-Humbrecht), the leading association for biodynamic winemakers in France. 

 

The Dirler-Cadé team employs traditional methods in the vineyard, such as using a horse to plough the terraces of select vineyards, and applying natural treatments like herbal teas and homoeopathic doses of horsetail. Flowers are removed by hand, old canes are pruned late to maintain vine health, and harvests are done manually. This meticulous attention to detail ensures that the grapes reach their full potential, reflecting the true character of their terroirs. We also need to mention what we think part of the true ‘special sauce’ is - a commitment to maintaining a joyful and positive energy among the team. 

 

Occupying some of the most prestigious Grand Cru sites in Alsace, each vineyard is celebrated for its unique terroir, and the domaine’s philosophy divides these vineyards according to the four elements—earth, air, fire, and water—emphasising how each site’s natural conditions influence the wines produced there:

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  • Kessler (Fire): The Kessler vineyard is known for its warm, sandstone and clay soils, which create powerful and textured wines. The Grand Cru Kessler Riesling offers impressive intensity and depth, with rich, ripe fruit and a mineral finish. The Heisse Wanne, a prized parcel within Kessler, is particularly celebrated for its opulent, structured wines, often considered worthy of Grand Cru status in its own right. Back in the 16th century, Heisse Wanne site was considered one of the three best plots in all of Alsace, along with the Rangen and the Brand.

  • Spiegel (Air): The Spiegel vineyard’s marl and sandstone soils reflect the sunlight, producing wines that are elegant, airy, and refined. The Riesling and Gewurztraminer from Spiegel are noted for their vibrant acidity and laser-like precision, with delicate fruit and floral aromas.

  • Saering (Water): The calcareous soils of the Saering vineyard lend a distinctive salinity and freshness to the wines. Saering Rieslings are known for their lively, juicy character and remarkable balance, making them perfect expressions of the “water” element.

  • Kitterlé (Earth): The Kitterlé vineyard, with its steep slopes and volcanic soils, produces wines with a smoky, mineral edge and a taut, vertical structure. Rieslings from this site are particularly long-lived, offering incredible complexity and a tension that keeps them vibrant for decades.

 

In the winery, Jean and Ludivine allow nature to take its course as much as possible. Fermentations are spontaneous, using only indigenous yeasts, and the wines are matured on their lees for extended periods, either in stainless steel tanks or old oak foudres. The resulting wines are expressive, complex, and show a remarkable sense of place. This “hands-off” approach allows the vintage and vineyard to dictate the style, rather than imposing a winemaking signature.

 

Even when fermentation stops naturally, leaving a touch of residual sugar, the Dirler-Cadés embrace it as part of the wine’s natural expression. This philosophy results in wines that are sometimes bone-dry, sometimes slightly off-dry, but always beautifully balanced and true to the vintage with a versatility that makes them just as fitting at a three-star Michelin restaurant as they are at a wine bar.

 

With over 150 years of winemaking history, Domaine Dirler-Cadé continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in Alsace. Their commitment to biodynamic principles, combined with their respect for tradition and terroir, has earned them a place among the elite producers of the region. As custodians of some of Alsace’s most important vineyard sites, Jean and Ludivine Dirler are not just making wines—they are preserving a legacy, crafting bottles that speak to the soul of Alsatian wine.

 

Their wines are not just drinks; they are experiences—each one a unique journey through the diverse and breathtaking landscapes of Alsace.

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C O N T A C T

 603/21 Thistlethwaite Street

South Melbourne VIC 3205
P: +61 415 501 736
hello@mosaiquewines.com.au

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