FEATURES
The 1986 Ruinart Blanc de Blancs hails from the oldest established Champagne house in the world, founded in 1729. This vintage, crafted exclusively from Chardonnay grapes, offers a glimpse into a mature Champagne style. On the nose, expect intense aromas of ripe apple, caramel, lemon peel, and mineral notes, with hints of figs and cloudberries. The palate is often described as balanced, with a pleasant acidity, though some bottles might show less effervescence and fruit intensity, indicating it has passed its peak. Nevertheless, it remains a delightful and pleasant drink.
This is an older vintage, so handle with care. Old corks can be fragile, and capsules may show signs of age. Decanting is generally not recommended for aged Champagne, as it can dissipate the remaining delicate bubbles and aromas. Serve chilled, but not ice-cold, around 10-12°C (50-54°F) in a tulip-shaped glass to best appreciate its complex bouquet. Open gently and be prepared for a potentially softer fizz.
🥂 This elegant Champagne is perfect for celebrating significant milestones or as a sophisticated aperitif. It also shines at intimate fine dining experiences where its mature character can be truly appreciated.
🍴 Ruinart Blanc de Blancs pairs beautifully with delicate seafood and shellfish, such as 'Fines de Claire' oysters, seared scallops, or sea bass ceviche with lime. It also complements salmon and avocado tartare, sole meunière, or sea bream sashimi. For a different approach, consider white meats like chicken supreme with morel mushrooms or roast veal with lemon zest, and even certain matured cheeses.
【Oldest established Champagne house in the world】
BACKGROUND
Champagne Ruinart was one of the first Champagne houses, established in 1729. Ruinart owns vineyards across the Champagne region, predominantly in the Côtes de Blancs and the Montagne de Reims. The house style is Pinot Noir-dominant, but the wine's flavor profile tends to favor Chardonnay. In fact, Ruinart's prestige cuvée, Dom Ruinart, is a Blanc de Blancs made entirely from grand cru Chardonnay grapes, predominantly from the Avize, Chouilly and Le Mesnil vineyards. This wine is aged for 10 years in the underground cellars, which were acquired in the 18th Century and lie under the city of Reims. These cellars, which are 5 miles (8km) long and three levels deep, hold many of the oldest expressions of Ruinart.