Tasting notes:

The first Champagne Drappier vineyards were planted in Urville in 1808 on land that was previously cultivated, in the 12th century, by the monks from the nearby Abbey of Clairvaux under the Abbé Bernard de Fontaine, whom we know as Venerable St. Bernard. The House has made a practice of rescuing heritage vine varieties and this wine is produced from three of them: Arbane, Petit Meslier, Blanc Vrai in combination with the ubiquitous Chardonnay. Medium lemon-green in hue with continuous bubbles and defined cordon, the wine exhibits green apple, melon, and passion fruit with pastry, fresh bread and floral overtones. Extra-Brut style (4.2g/l r.s.), the vibrant palate is framed by zippy acidity and brittle mousse and a hint of vanilla. Intense, layered and long, the wine is an excellent pairing for a rich scallop and prawn quiche. [Patricia Stefanowicz MW]