Drappier : Éclose 2012

Characteristics and tasting tips for the Drappier "Éclose" 2012 cuvée

Tasting

Nose
Remarkably complex, the bouquet reveals aromas of wild red berries, white peach and citrus fruits such as lime and mandarin. These intertwine with subtle notes of vanilla, spices, honey and dried fruits, all underpinned by a deep chalky minerality.

Palate
Structured and powerful, the palate offers a smooth, delicately creamy texture. A lovely acidic tension carries flavours of citrus, hazelnut and spices, stretching into a long finish of great purity.

Food and wine pairings

This Champagne pairs beautifully with noble fish such as roast turbot, with shellfish, or with Bresse chicken in a creamy mushroom sauce. It also elevates aged hard cheeses such as a mature Comté, as well as Japanese-inspired dishes.

Serving and cellaring

To enjoy the "Éclose" 2012 cuvée at its best, serve it between 10 and 12°C in tulip-shaped glasses, after gently aerating it for 20 to 30 minutes. Disgorged in April 2025, this age-worthy Champagne can be enjoyed now or cellared until around 2040.

The innovation and elegance of a great Champagne from the Côte des Bar

The estate

Founded in 1808 by François Drappier, Maison Drappier is an emblematic name of the Côte des Bar, based in Urville. Now run by the eighth generation, represented by Michel, Sylvie, Charline, Hugo and Antoine Drappier, the family estate farms 110 hectares of vines. A pioneer in the region, the house stands out for its strong environmental commitment, becoming the first certified carbon-neutral estate in Champagne in 2016. Drappier is renowned for its meticulous work with Pinot Noir and its innovative approach.

The vineyard

The grapes come exclusively from the historic Grande Sendrée plot, located in Urville in Champagne. This singular terroir is characterised by Kimmeridgian chalk soils covered with a layer of ash, the legacy of a fire that broke out in 1836. The vineyard is farmed according to organic principles, encouraging a pure, mineral expression.

The vintage

2012 is recognised as a vintage of outstanding quality in the region, with weather conditions that were particularly favourable to the development and ripening of Pinot Noir.

Vinification and ageing

The "Éclose" 2012 cuvée stands out for its unprecedented production process. The base wine is vinified and aged for three years on fine lees in an egg-shaped oak foudre, which encourages natural convection. The wine is then bottled in 2015 in a bottle that is itself egg-shaped for its second fermentation. It then benefits from extended ageing of ten years on the lees before disgorgement.

Grape varieties

60% Pinot Noir, 40% Chardonnay