Ruinart Champagne

Ruinart, an emblematic name in the Champagne region, holds the distinction of being the oldest established Champagne house. Founded in 1729 by Nicolas Ruinart in the city of Reims, the house has been producing champagne for almost three centuries, and its legacy is deeply intertwined with the history of the Champagne region itself.

Nicolas Ruinart, inspired by the vision of his uncle, Dom Thierry Ruinart, a Benedictine monk who had recognized the potential of sparkling wine, decided to establish the house of Ruinart. Dom Thierry's insights about the commercial potential of sparkling wines set the stage for what was to become not only the establishment of the Ruinart House but also the wider popularisation of Champagne as a favoured wine amongst European nobility and later, global consumers.

The crux of Ruinart’s distinctiveness lies in its choice of the Chardonnay grape, which plays a predominant role in all of its cuvées. This grape, central to the Ruinart identity, is known for its freshness, finesse, and luminous character, which complements the structure and power of the Pinot Noir and Meunier grapes that are also used. The preeminence of Chardonnay in Ruinart's champagnes is particularly evident in the house's non-vintage Ruinart Blanc de Blancs and the Dom Ruinart, a vintage Blanc de Blancs prestige cuvée. Both these wines exude the elegance, aromatic richness, and luminosity that Chardonnay brings to the blend.

One cannot discuss Ruinart without mentioning the Crayères. These ancient chalk pits, delving deep beneath the city of Reims, were originally dug out by the Romans. Today, they serve as the cellars for Ruinart, maintaining a constant temperature, ideal for the slow ageing of the champagnes. Recognizing their historical and cultural significance, the Crayères have been listed since 2015 as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The atmospheric galleries of these cellars have witnessed the maturation of countless bottles of Ruinart, ensuring that every bottle meets the house's exacting standards.

Over the years, Ruinart has showcased a commitment to art and design. This is evident in their collaborations with artists and their involvement in art fairs globally. By aligning itself with the world of art, Ruinart fosters a narrative that combines tradition with modernity, an ethos that parallels the evolution of champagne itself.

In terms of flavour profile, Ruinart champagnes are noted for their aromatic richness. The nose often offers a fresh and vibrant bouquet, with citrus and tropical fruits, and sometimes, floral and spicy notes. On the palate, the wine promises finesse, elegance, and a lingering finish, characteristic of the house's style.

Modern consumers appreciate Ruinart not only for its heritage and the supreme quality of its wines but also for its commitment to sustainability. The house has actively pursued a more eco-friendly approach, ranging from viticulture to packaging. Such endeavours ensure that while Ruinart looks back with pride at its storied past, it also looks forward to a future that is sustainable and innovative.

In summary, Ruinart is a beacon in the world of Champagne, embodying the region's history, the finesse of Chardonnay, and a commitment to both art and sustainability. Its legacy is a testament to the vision of its founders and the generations that followed, ensuring that the name Ruinart remains synonymous with excellence in Champagne.