Champagne R de Ruinart Brut NV

Description

Ruinart is a low profile, yet select, Champagne house which is steeped in history. It dates back to the 17th century, the time of the famous Dom Pérignon. It was founded in 1729 by Nicolas Ruinart in the city of Reims, the year after a Royal Decree in 1728 whereby Louis XV gave his consent for sparkling wines to be shipped in baskets containing 50 to 100 bottles. This opened the gates of Europe to champagne and thus makes Ruinart the oldest Champagne House. Nicolas' uncle was Dom Thierry Ruinart, close friend to Dom Pérignon himself and an inspiration behind the creation of this house after the Dom’s death. Its Gallo-Roman chalk cellars are now a UNESCO-classified historical monument and every two years the finest sommeliers in Europe gather there to compete for the Trophée Ruinart. Since the second world war the house has become synonymous with class and its production of only 1.7 million bottles per annum is small compared to other grande marques. It is now part of the LVMH group that also owns Moet & Chandon. The house style emphasises the pre-eminence of Chardonnay over Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier.

Ruinart Brut is a harmonious champagne, produced from a blend of pinot noir (40–45%), meunier (10–15%) and fresh chardonnay (40%). Created from 40–50 different crus from the terroirs of Côte des Blancs and Montagne de Reims.

Ruinart Brut sparkles in chestnuts, yellows and golds. First impressions reveal subtle fruity notes of reinette apples and apricots, along with fresh almonds and hazelnuts. Hints of elderflower and coriander seed add a touch of complexity. Second impressions create room for intense aromas of brioche and biscuit. Sweet notes of golden fruit, plum tarts and ripe drupes develop in the mouth. The palate is enveloped in harmonious and persistent roundness. The finale reveals the