Drappier : Charles de Gaulle

The authentic character of an exceptional cuvée

The property

Since its creation in 1808, the Champagne Drappier House has a history intimately linked to pinot noir, its grape of choice. It was in the 1930s that against the general opinion of the community, this grape variety was replanted on the estate. History proved the House right, whose cuvée Drappier 100% pinot noir, for the anecdote, was General de Gaulle's preference during his family meals.

Today, the children of André and Micheline Drappier represent the eighth generation to cultivate this exceptional vineyard in organic and biodynamic viticulture, highlighting forgotten grape varieties such as Arbane, Petit Meslier and Blanc Vrai.

The vineyard

The vineyard of the Champagne Drappier House extends south of Reims over 75 hectares between the Côte des Bar and its old vines, the Montagne de Reims and its intense pinot noir as well as the Côte des Blancs and its delicate chardonnay. This vineyard owes its uniqueness to its limestone-rich terroir combined with maximum sunlight. Some of the Drappier House's plots are also worked with draft horses.

The wine

Emblematic cuvée of the house, the Charles de Gaulle cuvée was born from a meeting. Living a few kilometers from Urville, the historic headquarters of the Drappier House, General de Gaulle developed a passion for their champagnes. The Charles de Gaulle cuvée from the Drappier House therefore pays tribute to this great man, with a champagne of character, whose strength and authenticity are revealed in their most beautiful expression.

Vinification and aging

The Charles de Gaulle cuvée from the Drappier House is made from the first press. Gravity vinification. Malolactic fermentation. The juices are partially aged in wood. Bottle aging for 36 months. Its dosage is 7 gr/liter. Signature of the Drappier House always in search of authenticity and naturalness, sulfur is used in minimal doses.

Blend

Who else but pinot noir to enhance this strength of character? Displaying a richness and powerful vinosity, this champagne is the result of a blend of 80% pinot noir, the house's signature grape variety, complemented by 20% chardonnay.

Characteristics and tasting advice for the Charles de Gaulle cuvée from Drappier

Tasting

With wines blended after a full aging in tanks, the result is a champagne of extreme freshness. 

Nose
The finesse of the aromatic bouquet is discovered on delicate notes of apples and dried fruits, evoking the spicy scents of nutmeg, enlivened by the brightness of citrus notes. 

Palate
On the palate, the Charles de Gaulle cuvée reveals itself in all its complexity and refinement, on a delicious density of matter with notes of candied fruits while the finesse of the bubbles persists in the length of an elegant and airy finish. A champagne where the strength of character is expressed with authenticity and harmony.

Food and wine pairings

Ideal as an aperitif, the Charles de Gaulle cuvée pairs ideally with a pheasant hen stuffed with foie gras, a mixed salad with grilled guinea fowl skewers or a Brie de Meaux.

Service

For optimal tasting, serve at 8°C.