Ruinart Champagne, the oldest Champagne house still in existence today, traces its origins 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. Around 1949, Bertrand Mure became director of Ruinart Champagne. Due to the company's strong growth at the time, more capital was needed to continue its growth. By selling half of the shares to Philippe Rothschild, there was suddenly sufficient leverage to transform Ruinart into something significant. The company would later be acquired by Moët & Chandon Champagne, naturally still operating under the Ruinart name, with the impeccable quality this Champagne offers.
Three years of rest for the Ruinart Champagne Brut
Ruinart owns 14 hectares of vineyards, primarily planted with Chardonnay. The remaining grapes are purchased from contracted partners of winegrowing families who passionately cultivate grapes for Ruinart. This Ruinart Brut, also known as R de Ruinart, is made from three grape varieties native to the Champagne region: 49 percent Pinot Noir, 11 percent Meunier, and Ruinart's most prominent grape, 40 percent Chardonnay. Ruinart Champagnes are known for the large amount of Chardonnay they use in their Champagnes. This contributes to their unique style. When all the grapes reach perfect ripeness, they are harvested individually and manually, and verified. Only later is the final blend created, after which the bottles, with their yeast, are returned to the Ruinart cellars for at least three years to develop the mousse and mature the wine.
What does the R de Ruinart Brut taste like?
The result is truly stunning! Pouring from the iconic domed bottle reveals a beautiful golden yellow color and a delicate mousse swirling through the glass. The aroma reveals a rich bouquet, clearly influenced by the Chardonnay grape. Delightful aromas of tropical and ripe yellow fruit are balanced by a pleasant hint of citrus at the finish. The subtle mousse gives the palate a rich and full yet silky smooth finish. The pleasant nuances of tropical and yellow fruit are interspersed with notes of brioche bread, roasted nuts, and a fresh citrus note at the end. The finish is pleasant, full, and full of character. What a gem!
