Dom Ruinart Blanc de Blancs 2004

Based in the centre of Reims, the Ruinart champagne house is one of the pillars of  Champagne tradition. It owes its name to a hard-working and intuitive Benedictine monk named Dom Thierry Ruinart, a contemporary of Louis XIV.

In 1729, his nephew, Nicolas Ruinart, founded the First Maison de Champagne. Today, Ruinart is synonymous with quality and the highest of standards, with a comprehensive and consistent quality range of champagnes, including its Blanc de Blancs and exclusive cuvées, which are remarkable for their balance, elegance and long-lasting aromas.

The champagne house also boasts spectacular underground cellars in the "crayères" (former limestone quarries).

Appearance:

Golden yellow with old-gold highlights. Fine bubbles.

Nose:

Powerful bouquet with large doses of minerality. Notes of withered white flowers with ripe fruit against an elegant backdrop of delicate smoky aromas.

Palate:

Great harmony throughout. Good vinosity with a very fine, creamy texture and a deliciously refreshing acidity that invites you to carry on sipping.

Comment:

This is an exclusive Blanc de Blancs champagne from a selection of the best Chardonnay vines growing in the best terroirs of the Côte de Blancs Grands Crus of Avize, Cramant, Chouilly and Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, as well as in Sillery and Verzenay in the Montagne de Reims.  The combination of these sources, along with the addition to the blend of 25% reserve wines, is the secret to the elegance and structure of this great cuvée.

The 2004 vintage sets off the exceptional qualities of this great champagne to perfection.   It displays great presence and character with rich aromatic nuances, and a deep, pleasant character on the palate.

A champagne to be kept back for special occasions.  Superb with a white truffle risotto.