At the grand old age of 99, the family of Champagne loses a well respected gentleman of the industry, André Drappier. The Champagne house (maison) Drappier in the southern region of Côte des Bar, earlier this week lost their head of family, the much admired and loved André Drappier.
"I remember how relaxed and fun André was when I visited his winery in Côte des Bar along with a few ellow wine journalists. His light hearted presence made everyone so very welcome, his passion for Champagne so lovingly shared and he gave all attendees a unique and lasting memory of having shared a glass or two of Champagne with an industry great. He joins a select few Champagne greats that I have met and who have since parted to include Michel Gonet (Champagne Michel Gonet) and Pierre Cheval (Champagne Gatinois)." Christopher Walkey
Though located in the southern region, away from the glamorous lights of Reims and Epernay, Champagne Drappier from Urville has remained a recognised and respected label within the wine loving community and always gaining praise from the most senior and respected wine journalists. With André's son, Michel, they worked together so to make Drappier a global favourite bubbly for many - It's prestige label being the highly acclaimed Grande Sendrée (released in 1975).
One of André's claim to fame was that he managed to have his own Champagne laid on the table of General de Gaulle.
Champagne Drappier will continue its passion for Champagne with Michel at the head and his children Hugo, Charline and Antoine supporting the family traditional in exceptional wine making.
