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, making Ruinart the oldest Champagne House. 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.

With grapes sourced predominantly from the Côte des Blancs, this cuvée is a firm and muscular champagne with a reductive style that rewards patience if left in the cellar. Pale yellow with green reflections, that on the nose presents a very fresh and fruity note, an abundance of lemon, nectarines and other white fleshy fruits with a more floral ending. On the palate a slightly toasted brioche flavour gives way to an elegance of citrus and natural sweetness with plenty of refreshing acidity.

Thin slices of fine Italian prosciutto (San Daniele, Parma, etc.) would pair beautifully with this expressive cuvée. Leg of milk-fed lamb or a low temperature cooked veal fillet would be a good main-course pairing.

The prestige cuvée of Champagne Ruinart, Dom Ruinart Blanc de Blancs is a Grand Cru only, pure-Chardonnay blend.