Drappier : Blanc de Blancs

The elegance and complexity of a rare Blanc de Blancs

The producer

Since its creation in 1808, the Drappier Champagne House, whose vaulted cellars date back to the 12th century, enjoys a history that is closely linked to Pinot Noir, its favourite grape variety. Indeed, in the the 1930s and against the general opinion of the village, this grape variety was replanted on the estate. History proved the House right, and the 100% Pinot Noir Drappier cuvée was General de Gaulle’s favourite champagne to relish during family get-togethers.

Today, the children of André and Micheline Drappier represent the eighth generation to care for this exceptional organic and biodynamic vineyard who honour long-forgotten grape varieties such as Arbane, Petit Meslier and Blanc Vrai.

The vineyard

The vineyard of the Drappier Champagne House spreads across 100 hectares of vines. Located to the south of Reims, the vineyard of the Drappier House is divided between its old vines in the Côte des Bar, its intense Pinot Noir grapes in the Montagne de Reims along with the very fine Chardonnay grapes in the Côte des Blancs. This vineyard is distinctive due to limestone-rich terroir combined with maximum sunshine. Some of the Drappier House’s plots are also worked with draught horses.

The wine

With a very low sulphur content and comprising a blend of wines aged entirely in vats, the Cuvée Blanc de Blancs authentically reveals the expression of a champagne whose finesse, purity and floral elegance are harmoniously combined with complexity and roundness.

Vinification and ageing

This Blanc de Blancs by Drappier is made from the first press. Vinification is carried out by gravity, followed by natural settling. Malolactic fermentation. 5% of the wines are aged in casks. Aged in bottle for 30 months. The dosage is 6.5 g/l.

The blend

Because the Drappier Champagne House has always cultivated its originality, the Cuvée Blanc de Blancs pays tribute to this singularity. Although Chardonnay represents 95% of the blend of this Cuvée Blanc de Blancs, it is completed by a hint of "Blanc Vrai", the other name for Pinot Blanc. The Drappier House cultivates with passion and great conviction the art of preserving the Champagne region’s ancient and forgotten grape varieties.

Drappier’s Blanc de Blancs: Characteristics and tasting tips

The tasting

Nose

The nose harmoniously blends fruity (white peach, pear) and floral (peony) notes.

Palate

The palate offers an alluring minerality, a creamy and enfolding texture along with a subtle alliance between freshness and delicious biscuity notes.

Food and wine pairing

Ideal as an aperitif, this Blanc de Blancs by Maison Drappier will complement white meat, fresh smoked salmon with citrus fruit or tagliatelle with scallops.

Service

For an optimal tasting experience, serve at 7°C.