Drappier

Drappier is a renowned winery located in the picturesque village of Urville, within the storied Champagne region of France. Established in 1808, the Drappier family has maintained a deep connection with the land and a commitment to producing wines that truly reflect the terroir and the uniqueness of their vineyards.

Set amidst rolling hills and verdant landscapes, Drappier boasts some exceptional characteristics that set it apart from other wineries in the region. The house has gained particular acclaim for its relatively low sulfur content in its wines, as well as its extensive use of the Pinot Noir grape, which is somewhat unusual for a Champagne house and imparts a distinctive personality to the Drappier champagnes.

Upon visiting the Drappier estate, one is immediately struck by the rich history that pervades the winery's ancient cellars. These cellars are some of the oldest and most extensive in the Aube department, originally built by the Cistercian monks of Clairvaux Abbey in the 12th century. The cool, deep cellars provide an ideal environment for the aging of Champagne, allowing Drappier to cultivate champagnes with complexity and a remarkable capacity for aging.

The vineyards themselves benefit from the unique Kimmeridgian soil, rich in limestone, which lends a particular minerality to the Drappier wines. The climate in this part of Champagne also contributes to the unique character of their produce – the region is known for its slightly warmer temperatures, which helps in the ripening of the grapes and subsequently results in richer, fuller-bodied wines.

Drappier offers a diverse range of cuvées, each crafted with meticulous attention to detail. From the flagship Carte d'Or expressing the full aromatic richness of Pinot Noir, to the Grande Sendrée, which is made in limited quantities from an exceptional plot, each bottle tells a story of heritage and passion. The winery is also noted for its prestigious Cuvée Charles de Gaulle, which was chosen by the French statesman himself for his personal use.

Moreover, Drappier has embraced sustainable viticulture practices, underscoring their respect for the environment. The family, now several generations in, continues to innovate, experimenting with historic grape varieties that were once common in the region, such as Arbane, Petit Meslier, and Blanc Vrai.

Visitors to Drappier can expect not only a tour of the historic cellars and tastings of their exquisite champagnes but also the warm hospitality that is synonymous with a family-run estate. The immersion into the Drappier world is not simply a discovery of fine champagnes but an intimate journey into the heart of Champagne tradition combined with a forward-thinking philosophy.