Who We Are

La Maison Cardinale is a creative House in perpetual motion. Whether crafting fine wines or delivering unforgettable moments, we embrace Bordeaux expertise while drawing inspiration from beyond, remaining faithful to our heritage in the art of hospitality and fine dining.

Ludovic Decoster Décoration griffes La Maison Cardinale

Porcelain as Our Heritage

The story of La Maison Cardinale began in 2001, when Dominique and Florence Decoster, after three decades in the Limoges porcelain industry, acquired Château Fleur Cardinale.

In 2017, their son Ludovic and his wife Caroline took the helm of the family estate, carrying forward the heritage of the French Art of Fine Dining while infusing their own vision, enriched by inspirations from beyond. In 2024, they created La Maison Cardinale, an entity bringing together Château Fleur Cardinale, a Saint-Émilion Grand Cru Classé, and Château Croix Cardinale, a Saint-Émilion Grand Cru.

 

Complementarity as a Guiding Principle

La Maison Cardinale embodies a unique approach where boldness meets humility, and tradition engages in dialogue with innovation. This dual dynamic, carried forward by a family partnership in each generation, maintains a balance between convention and freedom, pragmatism and sensitivity, knowledge and intuition.

This philosophy extends to the organization of its vineyards, with Château Fleur Cardinale on the northern slope and Château Croix Cardinale on the southern slope of the same clay-limestone plateau.

Creativity as a Signature

Heir to the French Art of Fine Dining, La Maison Cardinale draws upon its creativity to build bridges between different worlds.

This ability to imagine new possibilities allows it to continuously reinvent the French art of living while remaining deeply rooted in its expertise.

A Family Journey

In 2001, our family, originating from Limoges porcelain, set down its roots in Saint-Émilion, giving birth to a family adventure as bold as it is ascending.

From the promotion to Grand Cru Classé status in Saint-Émilion for Château Fleur Cardinale in 2006, to the opening to the public in 2021, and then the creation of La Maison Cardinale in 2024, each stage of our history is a stone laid on the path of excellence and innovation.

2001

Dominique and Florence Decoster purchase Château Fleur Cardinale.

2006

The property is promoted to the rank of Grand Cru Classé of Saint-Émilion.

2011

The Decoster family purchases Château Croix Cardinale, neighboring Château Fleur Cardinale.

2017

Ludovic, the eldest son of Florence and Dominique, and his wife Caroline embody the second generation to take over the family business.

2018

The family acquires new plots of land, and takes on a new challenge: producing a white wine.

2021

Château Fleur Cardinale becomes the first classified growth in Bordeaux labeled Committed RSE (Corporate Social Responsibility) by AFNOR. In the same year, the property opens its doors to the public.

2023

The family reinvents the great wine of Château Croix Cardinale through its southern slope.

2024

Since January 2024, La Maison Cardinale is the entity that brings together all the Vineyards and Experiences activities of the D. Decoster family.

Our Dedicated Team

The spirit of La Maison Cardinale is embodied by its passionate and united team.

Day after day, each team member contributes with professionalism and conviviality to transform our organization into a place of viticultural excellence and warm hospitality. Their collective commitment and expertise are the foundational pillars of the quality of our wines and the richness of the experiences we share with our visitors.

Julie BELLOT MEYROU

Experience Deputy Manager since 2024, Julie leads the development of wine tourism offerings and works to create an inspiring customer experience. Her interests include writing children’s stories, organizing family activities, and discovering new wines which she shares with her brother, a wine merchant.

Cyril BETRIU

As Tractor Operator since 2021, Cyril carefully oversees the proper development of the vines. Outside of work, he enjoys carp fishing, follows football championships, and appreciates poker nights.

Julien CADEL

As Tractor Operator since 2012 and Assistant Cellar Master since 2021, Julien contributes to wine production. An antique enthusiast, he cherishes historical objects and family gatherings.

Ludivine CHAGNON

As Technical Director since September 2023, Ludivine brings her expertise to wine production. An accomplished athlete, she pursues triathlon and dance, while nurturing a passion for writing.

Sabrina CHAUVEAU

As Team Coordinator since 2021, Sabrina oversees vineyard operations. She shares her enthusiasm for motorsports and music with her two daughters.

Marie DUMAZEAUD

Experience Manager since 2023, Marie passionately introduces visitors to the estate. Her interests include reading, wine tourism, and culinary experimentation.

Jeanne DURGEL

Commercial Executive Assistant since 2023, Jeanne effectively coordinates business affairs. She cultivates an interest in gastronomy and wines from around the world.

Lucie ESCURAING

As Technical Director Assistant since 2024, Lucie contributes to the continuous improvement of production. She enjoys sharing meals with friends, reading and hiking in the mountains.

Olivier LAROUMAGNE

As Team Leader and Tractor Operator since 1999, Olivier excels in soil management. He enjoys DIY projects, forest walks, and enriching conversations with senior community members.

Sophie PRIGENT

Accounting Secretary since 1996, Sophie brings her expertise to the daily management of La Maison Cardinale. A history enthusiast, she particularly enjoys reading historical biographies.

Christophe PRIGENT

As Tractor Operator since 2023, Christophe dedicates himself diligently to vineyard cultivation. Outside of the vineyard, he enjoys catch-and-release fishing, forest walks, and playing pétanque with friends.

Julie RIPERT

QHSE Manager since 2021, Julie oversees quality assurance, ethical compliance, and safety protocols at La Maison Cardinale. In her leisure time, she enjoys attending concerts, sewing, and spending convivial moments with friends.

Philippe TAILLEDET

Maintenance and Facilities Technician since 2023, Philippe meticulously maintains outdoor spaces. He divides his time between DIY projects, reading, and caring for his koi carp.