Drappier Millésime Exception 2020

Drappier Millésime Exception 2020 is the vintage champagne of Maison Drappier, a Pinot Noir-led blend that captures the character of the 2020 vintage.

Millésime Exception is made only in years when the growing season is judged remarkable: each bottle is the memory of a year. It is presented in a moulded bottle inspired by the house's old flasks. The 2020 vintage saw early budburst, little frost, a dry summer hotter than normal, and a harvest from late August to early September. The healthy, ripe grapes gave a precise wine of great aromatic purity. The 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay were aged entirely in Tronçais oak foudres and in barrels from the Forêt du Temple, then five years on laths.

Key facts

• Origin: France, Champagne, Côte des Bar, Urville
• Producer: Champagne Drappier
• Vintage: 2020
• Grapes: Pinot Noir 60%, Chardonnay 40%
• Dosage: 5 g/L
• Ageing: 100% in oak, 5 years on laths
• Size: 75 cl

Tasting notes

• Colour: Deep and intense
• Nose: Red fruit from the Pinot Noir, then floral notes, vanilla and flint
• Palate: Fresh attack, structured development, long finish that makes you want to come back to it

Serving and storage

Serve it at around 7 to 8 °C, in a white wine glass. It can be kept for around ten years and will gain in complexity. Store the bottle lying down, in a cool place away from light.

Food pairing

As an aperitif, with a scallop risotto, grilled sea bass, plancha-cooked sole, roast poultry, braised veal, pan-fried mushrooms or a Langres cheese. It also pairs with an aged Comté.

Further reading

Read why oak ageing changes wine. Also discover our article on Pinot Noir and the art of blending in Champagne. Find more cuvées in our vintage champagne selection and our champagne selection. Discover all of Maison Drappier in our Drappier collection.

Frequently asked questions

What is a vintage champagne?

It is a champagne made from the grapes of a single year, stated on the label. It is produced only in years judged remarkable and ages at least three years in the cellar before going on sale.

Why is Drappier a house apart?

Based in Urville since 1808, the Drappier family champions a terroir champagne, low in dosage and sulphur, made mainly from Côte des Bar Pinot Noir. It also preserves forgotten Champagne grape varieties and presents itself as the first carbon-neutral Champagne house.

How is the bottle shipped?

Delivery is free in France for orders from €300. Every bottle is carefully packed and sent with tracking.