Drappier Millésime Exception 2016
The most established house in the Côte des Bar
Grape Makeup:
60% Pinot Noir, 30% Chardonnay, 10% Meunier
Sweetness Level:
Extra Brut
Ageing on Lees:
3 years
Price:
$ (V)
Cellar:
Up to 5 years
Category:
Celebration
Photos
What
The most established house in the Côte des Bar, founded in 1808 and still family-owned and operated.
Where
Urville, Côte des Bar; 62 hectares of estate vineyards, primarily pinot noir (70%), with some meunier (15%) and chardonnay (9%) among others.
Why
Somewhat unusually for a substantial house, the wines are made in a very low-intervention way with minimal use of sulfites, making for quite a mature, generous style even early in its evolution, given added roundness by the use of oak maturation for 60% of the base wine. The 2016 vintage’s low yields have made for extra concentration here.
What Else
Drappier was the favourite champagne house of Charles de Gaulle. It was the first house to be carbon neutral. Its cellars are some of Champagne’s oldest, built by Cistercian monks in 1152.
Tasting Notes
A lightly cidery, spicy nose with undertones of boiled ginger and baked apple is warming and rich, immediately giving a sense of fullness and generosity. Tart but golden autumn fruit, ginger and pumpernickel toastiness on the palate give an effect that is a little rustic, but very welcoming. Acidity is soft and doesn’t contribute much rigidity, but tannins, are chewy and dense on the back palate, giving some support to the shape.
Try It With
A warming winter stew with rich, chewy meat or a holiday baked ham.
When To Drink
Main course.
Perfect For
The friend whose favourite meals are holiday meals.
TL/DR
Cidery, rich and pleasantly rustic.
Supplier
Ponti Wine Cellars
