What
The oldest continuously operated champagne maison, founded in 1729, before which it was illegal to transport the Champagne wines in bottles.
Where
Reims; only 17ha estate vineyards, but they include Montagne de Reims Chardonnay that is key to its classic Blanc de Blancs.
Why
This is the quintessential Blanc de Blancs, ultra-recognisable in its clear, eighteenth-century style, rounded bottle. Chardonnay is taken to its reductive extreme, avoiding all contact with oxygen (or oak) to the point of “Burgundian stinkiness.” However, it goes through malolactic fermentation, softening its contours somewhat. The new “second skin” packaging, besides being fully recyclable, also helps prevent light strike.
What else
Dom Ruinart, uncle of founder Nicolas Ruinart, was a co-worker of Dom Pérignon. Ruinart was the first house to use crayères (chalk caves) for ageing their wines.
Tasting Notes
A classic blanc de blancs profile: delicate lemon and white peach, sweet clovers, dewy mâche and white toast. Sherbety fruit on the front palate buzzes through to the finish, enhanced by a mouthful of powdery phenolics, a wash of acidity and creamy mousse. Finishes clean; no noticeable bitterness.
Try It With
Shrimp-based Dimsum dishes.
When To Drink
Apéritif.
Perfect For
Your friend who works in fashion.
Tatler Tip
Keep that cute "second skin" on after opening to protect it from lightstrike.
TL/DR
The platonic Blanc de Blancs.