Clarevallis Extra Brut

Wine Description for Clarevallis Extra Brut by Drappier

Colour & Appearance

Pale golden yellow with seductive pink reflections. The mousse displays itself lively and elegant – a visual promise of the Pinot dominance of this cuvée.

Nose

Complex and seductive on the bouquet: apples, pears and quinces form the foundation, complemented by floral notes of elderflower and verbena. These are joined by grapefruit peel and subtle autolysis. Yet the heart of this wine lies in the pronounced stone fruit notes: mirabelle plums and greengage plums, played around by herbal spice, almonds and a hint of wax.

Palate

The attack surprises with silky sensuousness. Unlike many Champagnes, acidity does not dominate here; instead, a pronounced minerality gives the Clarevallis remarkable energy. Juicy, ripe fruit unfolds in a powerful body, carried by a lively, perfectly integrated mousse. The low dosage of just 4 grams allows the terroir to take centre stage.

Finish

Saline, umami and slightly phenolic – a finale that demonstrates complexity and depth. The minerality lingers and underscores the serious character of this Extra Brut.

Terroir & Origin

A homage to Saint Bernard, who founded the Abbey of Clairvaux near Urville in 1115. The historic vaulted cellar dating from 1152 belongs today to the House of Drappier and lends this Champagne its spiritual dimension.

Grape Variety & Vinification

75% Pinot Noir, complemented by Chardonnay, Pinot Meunier and Blanc Vrai. Exclusively first-press cuvée must, mechanically extracted under low pressure. Spontaneous clarification by gravity, two-week fermentation in stainless steel at low temperatures, complete malolactic fermentation. Approximately three years on the lees. No cold stabilisation, no filtration, minimal sulphiting below 20 mg/l. The disgorging date is engraved on every bottle – transparency par excellence.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Vietnamese summer rolls with hoisin-lime sauce, dorado ceviche with grapefruit tiger milk or fennel and blood orange salad with grilled langoustines – the minerality and freshness of the Clarevallis harmonises perfectly with Asian flavours and raw seafood.

Special Features

A Champagne for purists: vinified with minimal intervention, with extraordinarily low sulphiting and a dosage that gives terroir room to express itself. The engraved disgorging date bears witness to Drappier’s philosophy of transparency.