André Drappier dies aged 99
André Drappier, the sixth generation to lead Champagne house Drappier, has died at the age of 99.
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Born in 1926, Drappier took over the family business, launching the Carte d’Or cuvée in 1952 with much success, instantly recognisable by its distinctive yellow label. After a devastating frost in 1957 (destroying 95% of the harvest), he introduced Meunier to the vineyards due to its resistance spring frosts.
In 1968, alongside his wife, Micheline, Drappier created a Rosé Champagne which was made of 100% Pinot Noir, a novelty at the time. This style of wine achieved much success, with the Champagne Drappier Rosé de Saignée being poured at the Elysée Palace 50 years later.
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Famously, French President Charles de Gaulle enjoyed a Drappier Pinot Noir vintage in 1965 with his family at Colombey-les-deux-Églises. A favourite of De Gaulle due to its distinctive character, he also served it at La Boisserie, his private residence near Urville in the Aube region of Champagne. The commission for Drappier Champagnes to be served in the homes of Charles de Gaulle came on the recommendation of his aide-de-camp, Colonel de Bonneval, who recognised the wines quality and its vineyards proximity to Urville.
Drappier also created the Carte Jaune Brut Sans Année and the special cuvée La Grande Sendrée, the first official vintage being from 1975. The grapes for this special vintage come from plots in the area known as ‘Cendrée’, named after an ancient forest that burnt down in 1836. The ashes of said fire had killed the pests in the area and had enriched the soil, making it a perfect plot to grow grapes.
In 1979, André handed the reins of Drappier over to his son Michel, who has since expanded the estate. The Drappier house is now helped by its eighth generation with Charline, Hugo and Antoine Drappier taking active roles in the house’s management.
Until his death yesterday morning, André stayed close to the vineyards and regularly joined his family for lunch, with 2024 marking his 77th harvest with the house.
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