Champagne Ruinart - Brut R de Ruinart

Bettane & Desseauve

About the estate:

What can one say about this estate other than that it is in dazzling form, led by a cellar master, Frédéric Panaïotis, at the peak of his craft, and by technical teams—in the vineyard, in the cellar, and in support roles—driven by the same high standards and the same commitment to innovation. The entire range has gained spectacular precision and intensity, without losing any of its signature style rooted in aromatic brilliance. Focused primarily on Chardonnays from the Côte des Blancs and the Montagne de Reims, the champagnes all exhibit great delicacy and aromatic purity, where chalk, flowers, white fruits, and citrus notes express themselves remarkably. The latest vintages of the Dom Ruinart cuvée have greatly impressed us. Committed to art and creativity, the house draws on the greatest talents to interpret its DNA, its style, and its art of living.

Guide Hachette des vins

About the estate:

The oldest of the champagne houses. It could be classified as a historic monument, just like its cellars, which were carved into the chalk during the Gallo-Roman period and have been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2015. The company’s founder, Nicolas Ruinart, added wine trading to his cloth merchant business in 1729—another thriving industry in the region at the time, though it was soon abandoned. The company remained family-owned until its acquisition by Moët & Chandon in 1963. Its prestigious champagne takes its name from the monk Dom Ruinart, a scholar and contemporary of Dom Pérignon. At the heart of Ruinart’s cuvées since 1947 has been Chardonnay, resulting in a style that emphasizes freshness. Frédéric Panaïotis has been the cellar master since 2007.

Guide des Vins Gault & Millau

About the wine:

The sparkling effervescence hints at magnificent potential. The nose reveals notes of ripe white fruit, sweet almond, and dried fruit. On the palate, it is full-bodied, fruity, and has a lovely finish. Ideal pairing: as an aperitif with Pata Negra tapas.

Robert Parker - Wine Advocate

RVF - La Revue du Vin de France / Guide des Meilleurs Vins de France

About the estate:

Founded in 1729, this leading Champagne house enjoys an excellent reputation in France thanks to its outstanding work in marketing as well as in the style and identity of its wines. The focus is on Chardonnay, fine aging on the lees, and a creamy texture, resulting in wines that strike a chord with a clientele deeply loyal to the brand. Under the leadership of Frédéric Panaïotis, the cellar master, the wines have gained in purity and precision. The champagnes presented this year confirm a return to balanced dosages, precise maturity, and greater complexity.

Wine Spectator

James Suckling

About the wine:

A caramel glaze envelops a wide range of candied fruit aromas; the balance between ripeness and mineral freshness is perfect, and the finish is long and moderately structured. Enjoy now.