Drappier is an independent, family-run Champagne House founded in 1808 in Urville, in the heart of the Côte des Bar region. Handed down from generation to generation, it has forged a singular identity by promoting forgotten grape varieties and adopting a respectful approach to nature. Thanks to its authentic know-how and its commitment to champagnes with character, Drappier has established itself as a key Champagne house.
A heritage of authenticity and character
Maison Drappier is founded on the strong values that have shaped its identity for over two centuries: authenticity, respect for the terroir, family tradition and measured innovation. Anchored in Urville, on an exceptional limestone terroir, Drappier cultivates a singular approach, bringing to light forgotten grape varieties such as Pinot Blanc, Arbane or Petit Meslier, to create champagnes with assertive personality.
Pinot Noir plays a central role in the Drappier style. The majority in our blends, it gives our cuvées aromatic power, elegant vinosity and complexity. Champagnes such as Brut Nature Sans Soufre and Grande Sendrée perfectly embody this quest for authenticity and purity, with minimalist vinifications that allow the wine's character to fully express itself.
A forerunner in the development of more natural champagnes, Drappier has combined tradition and modernity by adopting an eco-responsible approach, limiting the use of sulfur and moving towards environmentally-friendly viticulture. It is this sincerity and constant quest for accuracy that makes Drappier a singular and respected House, respected by connoisseurs and champagne enthusiasts the world over.
The Discreet Essor of a House of Character
The story of Maison Drappier is one of a discreet but remarkable rise, driven by family roots and loyalty to deep-rooted values. Founded in 1808 by François Drappier in Urville, in the heart of the Côte des Bar region, the House has patiently built itself up, far from the hustle and bustle of the big cities, by relying on the strength of the terroir and the constancy of a job well done.
It was in the 20th century, under the impetus of Georges Collot, Michel Drappier's maternal grandfather, that the company took a decisive turn. Convinced of the potential of Pinot Noir in a long-underestimated region, he took the bold step of replanting it on a massive scale. This visionary decision shaped the Drappier style and established the House's reputation over the decades.
Michel Drappier, at the helm of the House since the 1970s, embodies a new era of measured audacity and fidelity to essentials. He innovated by drastically reducing the use of sulfur, promoting rare grape varieties and adopting environmentally-friendly viticulture, while preserving the authenticity that makes Drappier champagnes so unique.
Today, the company remains family-owned and independent, run by the eighth generation. Surrounded by his children, Michel Drappier continues to promote this confidential house that has become a benchmark, appreciated for the purity of its cuvées, the sincerity of its commitment and the unpretentious elegance of its champagnes.
The different types of Drappier champagnes
Maison Drappier offers a palette of champagnes with rich and varied profiles, each reflecting a unique facet of its expertise. Emblematic cuvées include Champagne Drappier Brut Nature, Champagne Drappier Carte d'Or and Champagne Drappier Blanc de Blancs. Each cuvée has been designed to offer a singular sensory experience, meeting the tastes and expectations of every champagne lover.
Champagne Drappier Brut Nature is distinguished by its total absence of dosage, meaning that no sugar is added after fermentation. This choice reveals the pure essence of the wine, exalting the natural aromas of the grape. This straightforward, dry and unadorned champagne will appeal to connoisseurs in search of authenticity and precision.
Champagne Drappier Carte d'Or embodies the soul of the House. Produced mainly from Pinot Noir grapes, its subtle balance of freshness, fruitiness and structure will win you over. Its aromatic richness and depth on the palate make it an ideal cuvée for special occasions, symbolizing the elegance and exacting standards so dear to Drappier.
Finally, Champagne Drappier Blanc de Blancs reveals another expression of the house style, all finesse and delicacy, perfect for palates in search of elegant, crystal-clear bubbles.
Champagne Drappier Brut Nature: An authentic choice
Champagne Drappier Brut Nature powerfully embodies the essence of Champagne terroir at its truest. With no dosage, this cuvée reveals all the nobility of the grapes and the precision of the house's know-how. Mainly made from Pinot Noir grapes, this champagne is distinguished by powerful aromas, great intensity and remarkable depth.
The total absence of added sugar after fermentation allows the grape's natural aromas to express themselves freely, without artifice. This dry, limpid, taut profile will appeal to lovers of straightforward champagnes, with an assertive freshness. The palate harmoniously blends mineral, fruity and subtly spicy notes, for a vibrant, sincere tasting experience.
Whenyou choose Champagne Drappier Brut Nature, you're choosing a cuvée with a commitment to authenticity, transparency and tradition. A true ode to nature and Champagne know-how, ideal for rare and precious moments.
Conclusion
Drappier is much more than just a Champagne House: it's the expression of a rare family heritage, an assumed authenticity and a profound respect for terroir. Renowned for its assertive style, its eco-responsible approach and its attachment to forgotten grape varieties, the House embodies a sincere and singular vision of Champagne.
For over two centuries, Drappier has seduced connoisseurs in search of champagnes with character, crafted with precision and without compromise. To taste a Drappier champagne is to discover a story of passion, tradition and commitment, carried by a family united around excellence and true simplicity.
What is the history of Champagne Drappier?
Founded in 1808 by François Drappier in Urville, Aube, the House of Drappier has remained a family business for eight generations. It is renowned for its commitment to environmentally-friendly viticultural practices and the production of champagnes with character, notably from Pinot Noir grapes. The house's historic cellars, dating back to the 12th century, bear witness to its rich heritage.
What are Champagne Drappier's environmental commitments?
Champagne Drappier is a pioneer in sustainable development. It was the first Champagne house to obtain "carbon neutral" certification. The house practices organic and biodynamic viticulture, uses recyclable materials for its bottles and limits the use of sulfur in its wines.
What types of champagnes does Drappier offer?
The Drappier range includes:
- Carte d'Or: a blend dominated by Pinot Noir.
- Brut Nature Zéro Dosage: 100% Pinot Noir with no dosage.
- Blanc de Blancs Signature: 100% Chardonnay.
- Grande Sendrée: prestige cuvée from old vines.
- Rosé de Saignée: a rosé produced by bleeding, offering great intensity.
Each cuvée reflects the company's expertise and commitment to quality.
Where are the vineyards of Champagne Drappier located?
Drappier's vineyards stretch mainly around Urville, in the Côte des Bar region, south of Champagne. This region is characterized by limestone soils and a climate conducive to the cultivation of Pinot Noir, the house's emblematic grape variety.
What bottle sizes does Champagne Drappier offer?
Non-vintage champagnes, such as Carte d'Or, are best consumed within 3 years of purchase to preserve their freshness. Vintage cuvées, such as Grande Sendrée, can be kept for 5 to 10 years, or even longer, depending on storage conditions.
How long do Drappier champagnes keep?
The price of Laurent-Perrier champagne varies according to the type of champagne and the region where you buy it. For non-vintage brut, you can expect to pay between 30 and 40 euros. Cuvée Rosé generally costs between 50 and 60 euros, while vintage brut can cost upwards of 70 euros. Prices can vary depending on where you buy the champagne, so it's always best to check with your local wine merchant or online.