Dom Ruinart Blanc de Blancs

2009 was a special vintage, one of the few times the harvest began in August. After a sunny and very warm spring, the months of June, July, and August brought rather gloomy weather and heavy rainfall. The blend is 100 percent Chardonnay, sourced exclusively from Grand Cru vineyards. This Blanc de Blancs variety is only released in exceptionally good vintages.

The beginning of Champagne House Ruinart

Ruinart Champagne is the oldest surviving Champagne house in France. Its origins trace back to the Benedictine monk Dom Thierry Ruinart. He was the confidant of the inventor of sparkling wines, indeed Dom Pérignon. Until the Second World War, Champagne Ruinart was run by the Ruinart family. Not by Thierry Ruinart, but by his nephew Nicolas Ruinart. Around 1949, Bertrand Mure became director of Ruinart Champagne. Due to the strong growth the company was experiencing at the time, more capital was needed to continue its growth. By selling half the shares to Philippe Rothschild, there was suddenly sufficient leverage to transform Ruinart into something significant. Later, the company would be acquired by Moët & Chandon Champagne. Naturally, it still carries the Ruinart name, with the impeccable quality this Champagne offers.

The stunning result of Dom Ruinart Blanc de Blancs 2009

The nose of this vintage initially reveals soft notes of chestnut, coconut, and fresh bread. The biscuit aroma quickly gives way to floral aromas (iris, lily, bitter orange) and citrus fruits (bergamot, citron). The bouquet is complemented by hints of minerals (hard natural stone, flint). Dom Ruinart 2009 is characterized by its full yet subtle flavor against a mineral background. Dom Ruinart 2009 feels light on the palate thanks to the freshness of citrus fruits and gentian. The most lingering flavor is that of grapefruit peel and kumquat with a slightly salty note. Thanks to the airy and refined structure of this vintage and the beautiful, fresh flavor for which this winery is known, it pairs well with elegant dishes, such as Peruvian sea bream ceviche or lobster carpaccio, caviar with lemon and coriander oil. Dom Ruinart 2009 keeps well in a wine cellar and will develop an even richer flavor after a few years. After this period, the wine can be enjoyed with dishes with more intense flavors.