Grande Sendrée Rosé 2006 Champagne Drappier

Maison Drappier is located in Urville, in the heart of the Côte des Bar in the Aube region of France. It was founded in 1808, but the history of the surrounding vineyards is much older. Today, André and Michel Drappier represent the sixth and seventh generation of the family, the Maison possesses a 40 hectare estate, and produces champagnes with great personality.  They enjoy a halo of exclusivity among champagne experts, for whom Drappier’s quality is an open secret.  Their attractive pricing also makes them a firm favourite with lovers of the world's most famous sparkling.

Appearance

Coppery pink hue. Fine bubbles.

Nose

Complex on the nose, with aromas of strawberries and wild fruit, violet notes and a light touch of toast.

Palate

Good structure. Pleasant, fruity and palate-coating. Very long-lasting aftertaste.

Comment

In the mid-nineteenth century there was a huge fire in the Urville area, which reduced the trees and shrubs to ashes. The Drappier family later planted a vineyard in the area which the locals referred to as "Les Cendrées" (The Ashes). Today this champagne is one of the region’s finest.

This rosé is produced from a single parcel of 70 year-old vines, growing on limestone soil.  It has a character which is both subtle and vinous, seductive from the first sip. This is a champagne whose expression is also drawn out through diligent, meticulous vinification work, with 30% of the cuvée aged in oak barrels, followed by six years’ ageing in bottle on the lees.

The Grande Sendrée cuvée combines the character and persistence of the Pinot Noir with the elegance and delicacy of the Chardonnay. A refined Champagne, with voluptuous fruit and the grace of the 2006 vintage.  In short, a rosé champagne with unusual elegance and a seductive character.

Recommended with a Menorcan-style lobster stew