Drappier : Clarevallis Extra Brut

An exceptional champagne reflecting its terroir

The estate

Since its founding in 1808, the Champagne Drappier House, with its vaulted cellars dating back to the 12th century, has a history closely tied to Pinot Noir, its signature grape variety. In the 1930s, this grape was replanted on the estate against the general opinion of the community. History proved the House right: the Drappier 100% Pinot Noir cuvée, as an anecdote, was General de Gaulle's favorite during family meals.

Today, the children of André and Micheline Drappier represent the eighth generation to cultivate this exceptional terroir according to organic and natural principles, including forgotten grape varieties: Arbane, Petit Meslier, and Blanc Vrai.

The vineyard

The vineyard of the Champagne Drappier House covers 75 hectares of vines. Located south of Reims, the Drappier estate's vineyard is spread between the Côte des Bar and its old vines, the Montagne de Reims and its intense Pinot Noir, and the Côte des Blancs and its refined Chardonnay. This vineyard stands out thanks to its limestone-rich terroir combined with optimal sun exposure. Some of the Drappier House's plots are also worked using the family's draft horse.

Tasting this cuvée is first and foremost understanding its story.

Clarevallis champagne takes its name from the abbey founded in 1115 by Saint Bernard. This cuvée is made exclusively from grapes grown on the Urville hillside, planted during the Cistercian era and historically vinified and aged in the cellars built in 1152 by the monks of Clairvaux Abbey. To preserve its biodiversity, the Kimmeridgian Jurassic limestone terroir is organically farmed and partly plowed by horse. This Clarevallis champagne aims to be the ultimate expression of the exceptional terroir of Champagne Drappier. The label was designed by Charline Drappier, inspired by the Grande Bible de Clairvaux, handwritten in the 12th century.

Vinification and aging

This Clarevallis Extra Brut cuvée from Champagne Drappier is unfiltered and dosed at 4g/l with an organic cane sugar liqueur.

Blend

Pinot Noir (75%), Pinot Meunier (10%), Chardonnay (10%), and Blanc Vrai (Pinot Blanc 5%).

Characteristics and tasting notes for the Clarevallis cuvée from Champagne Drappier

Tasting notes

Appearance
The appearance shows a grey-gold color. The mousse is fine and persistent.

Nose
The unique blend of this cuvée offers beautiful minerality mingled with notes of elderflower and violet.

Palate
The palate is balanced, with lovely tension.