I always love the new releases from the most established Champagne houses and in Dom Ruinart, we have one that has been perfecting its art for nearly three hundred years. Since 1729 when Nicolas Ruinart’s ledger recorded the first sale of ‘vin de bulles’, to the most recent vintages, Ruinart has pursued an unwavering dedication to producing the very best Champagne.
The Blanc de Blancs made entirely from parcels of Grand Cru Chardonnay, along with exceptional Rosé, are revered within Champagne circles and are firm favourites with collectors and drinkers alike.
The 2006 Dom Ruinart Blanc de Blancs has already been awarded 96+ points by Galloni who calls it “One of the highlights among this year’s new tête de cuvée releases” elevating this cuvée into some exceptional company. Its score surpasses that of the great 2006 Dom Pérignon and is only just behind the mighty 2006 Salon. Galloni goes on to say that this release, “will be a fine investment for those looking for a wine to cellar to commemorate special occasions.”
The same can be said of the new release of the 2004 Dom Ruinart Rosé. Given that the 2004 Blanc de Blancs received 97 points from Galloni, this promises to be an exceptional buy for quality.
These are two Champagnes that should simply not be missed.
2006 Dom Ruinart Blanc de Blancs (Limited)
£508.00 per 6 bottles In Bond
Limpid, pale straw in appearance, the light picks out hints of silvery green in the glass. The nose, at first reticent, requires some coaxing. The taut house style is evident but then it unfolds with fresh cut green apple, white peach and nectarine, notes of tangerine zest and a hint of flint strike. The palate displays an extraordinary intensity, the citrus components competing for attention with broader brioche notes. The finish is long, complex and very satisfying. It is quite literally mouth-watering and without question another Dom Ruinart destined for greatness. Goedhuis & Co Drink 2020 – 2040+
One of the highlights among this year’s new tête de cuvée releases, the 2006 Dom Ruinart Brut Blanc de Blancs is a powerful, almost tannic Champagne built on structure and intensity. Then again, much of the Chardonnay here comes from the Montagne de Reims, where wines tend to naturally be quite broad. Even though it’s now ten years old, the 2006 is much less expressive than either the 2002 or 2004 at a similar stage. I expect it will be quite a few years before the 2006 is truly ready to drink. Over the years I have been fortunate to taste Dom Ruinart back to the 1970s, and while I don’t think the 2006 will need decades to be at its best, it certainly does look like a long distance runner. There is plenty of citrus and floral driven intensity, although the bouquet is less toasty and open than it often is. In short, the 2006 Dom Ruinart is a wine for those who can be patient. It will be a fine investment for those looking for a wine to cellar to commemorate special occasions. Antonio Galloni 96+ points. Drink 2021-2046
2004 Dom Ruinart Rosé (Extremely limited)
£890.00 per 6 bottles In Bond
81% grand cru Chardonnay and 19% red wine for colour and aroma. Deep, salmon pink, the light reflecting burnished copper in the glass. On the nose notes of wild strawberry, blood orange and pink grapefruit with the merest hint of spicy, white pepper. On the palate the ripe citrus notes are crystalline pure, the low dosage (4g/ltr) contributing a deep set zesty, minerality. Beyond that, the red fruits of the grand cru Pinot Noir provide density and structure that suggest this wine has many years ahead of it. The finish is long, precise and lasts for well over a minute. Goedhuis & Co Drink 2019-2040+
Rose petal pink with burgeoning subtle hints of copper and gentle bubbles. Complex scents of peach and quince are accompanied by an exotic touch of Asian spices and sandlewood. A welcome touch of noble, ripe tannins makes this a wine for fine food such as feathered game or even scallops. It has a long life ahead of it. Decanter 96 points
Really very serious umami nose. Lip smacking! Excellent mouth presence and a dry, savoury finish. There is nothing namby pamby about this wine. Long finish, and masses of red fruit flavour on the way there. Excellent acidity. Good stuff! Jancis Robinson. 17.5 points Drink 2015-2023
