The History of the Drappier Estate
Two Centuries of Tradition
The houseDrappierIt has a rich and fascinating history, driven by the vision and tenacity of the Drappier family for over two centuries. It all began in 1808, when François Drappier founded the house. Over the generations, the family has preserved the values and traditions of Champagne while adapting to technical and environmental changes.
It is withMichel DrappierAs a seventh-generation representative, Michel oversaw a decisive turning point for the estate in the 1980s. Inheriting a well-established property, he injected new energy by reintroducing old grape varieties like Pinot Blanc and developing more environmentally friendly winemaking techniques. Under his leadership, the estateDrappierhas adopted sustainable viticulture, with a gradual conversion to organic farming and the integration of biodynamic principles. This choice reflects a desire to protect the terroir while promoting biodiversity in the vineyards. Michel Drappier
has also implemented low-intervention winemaking practices, reducing the use of sulfur to favour the purest expression of the wine.
Today, his children continue his work, ensuring the continuity of the family's commitment to quality and the preservation of Champagne tradition. The history of the houseDrappierIt is therefore one of a constant commitment to excellence, combining ancestral know-how and modern innovations.
The Drappier Vineyard
Environmentally Friendly Viticulture
The vineyard of the houseDrappierThe estate covers approximately 60 hectares, primarily in the Côte des Bar, a sub-region located south of Champagne. This area is particularly renowned for its limestone and marl soils, which offer ideal conditions for growing Pinot Noir. In fact, this grape variety dominates the estate's plantings, representing over 70% of the vines. These geological characteristics, combined with a temperate climate, allow for a slow and gradual ripening of the grapes, promoting aromatic expression and complexity in the wines.
The houseDrappierThe estate is distinguished by its unwavering commitment to sustainable viticulture. For several decades, the house has chosen to cultivate its vines without herbicides or pesticides, thus promoting soil preservation and biodiversity. In addition, the estate is engaged in a process of conversion to organic farming, with meticulous respect for natural cycles and responsible cultivation practices. The harvest is carried out by hand, guaranteeing careful selection of perfectly ripe grapes. This rigor in vine cultivation and harvesting contributes to the production of exceptionally refined champagnes, a true reflection of the terroir.
Furthermore, the houseDrappierIt preserves certain old plots, where forgotten grape varieties such as Pinot Blanc, Petit Meslier, and Arbane are cultivated, bringing a touch of diversity and originality to the wines. Thus, the houseDrappieris part of a sustainable approach, while valuing the specificities of its unique terroir to offer champagnes of character and exceptional quality.
The Art of Winemaking at Drappier
Champagnes that reveal the terroir and the know-how
Home winemakingDrappierIt rests on a harmonious combination of respect for tradition and modern innovation. Michel Drappier, true to his vision of an authentic and pure champagne, favors natural winemaking methods, with minimal intervention in the wine. This approach promotes a more natural and vibrant expression of aromas.
The houseDrappierThe estate is also renowned for its vinification in stainless steel tanks and oak barrels, which allows for the development of aromatic complexity while preserving the freshness of the fruit. Stainless steel tanks ensure perfect temperature control, essential for guaranteeing slow and controlled fermentations. As for oak barrels, they impart subtle woody nuances, enhancing the structure and depth of the wines without altering their fruity character.
The wines of the houseDrappierThese wines are characterized by their balance between power and finesse. Pinot Noir, the dominant grape in the blends, gives the wines a beautiful structure, aromas of red fruit, and great depth. Meanwhile, the other grape varieties used, such as Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier, contribute finesse and freshness, harmoniously complementing the blends.
ChampagnesDrappierThese wines are the result of meticulous winemaking and carefully controlled aging. They are distinguished by their aromatic richness, their finesse, and their ability to evolve over time, offering a unique tasting experience with every sip. Whether for a special occasion or to enrich a collection, each bottle of Drappier champagne reflects the excellence and commitment of a family-run house dedicated to the art of winemaking.
