Yves Ruffin Premier Cru Extra Brut NV
Organic growers since 1971, still carrying the torch 50 years later
Grape Makeup:
50% Chardonnay, 50% Pinot Noir
Sweetness Level:
Extra Brut
Ageing on Lees:
7+ years
Price:
$
Cellar:
5-10 years
Category:
Culinary
Photos
What
A pioneer of organics in Champagne in the early 1970s, despite major scepticism in the region at the time (they were one of four growers farming this way); family-owned and operated since its founding, now onto the third generation.
Where
Avenay-Val-d’Or, Vallée de la Marne; 3ha in Avenay and Tauxières-Mutry in the Montagne de Reims, equal parts chardonnay and pinot noir.
Why
Even this NV ages for more than 7 years on the lees, and the estate’s minimum is 5 years to achieve the desired maturity on release. Fermentation in oak and acacia (the latter is quite unusual) also lends a beautiful creamy sweetness to the aromas.
What Else
Cuvée Thierry Ruffin, produced with the 2006 harvest in tribute to the late Thierry Ruffin, whose wife Sylvie and son Antonin now run the company, showcases the estate’s style in its full maturity.
Tasting Notes
Macadamia nut and white chocolate open the nose, revealing something slightly vegetal (sunchoke) and bright lemon. Very pure and fine on the palate, this pairs its citrussy fruit with lovely buttered toast and hints of cream. The shape starts taut and neatly proportioned but gets slightly chunkier and fuller on the back (though it’s never more than medium in weight), where a wonderful balance of acidity, sweetness and toast is maintained. Pleasant, lightly powdery tannins demarcate the back.
Try It With
Earthy, complex vegetarian dishes.
When To Drink
Apéritif.
Perfect For
The vegetarian friend who is a secret hedonist.
TL/DR
Creamy, lightly vegetal and pure-fruited.
Supplier
ORD Fine Wines Group
