Ruinart BS19 – by Rachelle Simoneau
In the heart of the Champagne region lies a brand that encompasses elegance, sophistication, and excellence: Ruinart. Established in 1729 by Nicolas Ruinart, this esteemed Champagne house holds the distinction of being the oldest in the world. With a rich heritage spanning nearly three centuries, Ruinart has continuously pushed the boundaries of craftsmanship, innovation, and sustainability in the art of Champagne making. Let us delve into the fascinating story behind this iconic brand, exploring its history, craftsmanship, and commitment to sustainability.
A Legacy of Innovation
Ruinart’s journey is deeply intertwined with the history of Champagne itself, tracing back to the early 18th century in the vibrant city of Reims, France. It was here that Nicolas Ruinart, a member of a prominent winemaking family, envisioned a new chapter in the region’s winemaking tradition. In a time when Champagne was primarily known for its still wines, Nicolas Ruinart recognized the potential of sparkling wine and the opportunity it presented to elevate the region’s reputation on the global stage.
Drawing upon his entrepreneurial spirit and deep-seated passion for winemaking, Nicolas Ruinart embarked on a daring mission to introduce the world to the exquisite taste of effervescent Champagne. In 1729, he founded Maison Ruinart, becoming the first Champagne house established exclusively for the production of sparkling wines. This visionary decision marked the beginning of a remarkable journey characterized by innovation, excellence, and an unwavering commitment to quality.
image: Ruinart – Mathieu Bonnevie
Over the years, Ruinart’s reputation for excellence continued to grow, earning the admiration of nobility, connoisseurs, and tastemakers alike. From the royal courts of Europe to the bustling salons of Paris, Ruinart Champagne became synonymous with luxury, sophistication, and celebration, embodying the art of living in its purest form.
In honoring its past and embracing the future, Ruinart pays homage to Nicolas Ruinart’s pioneering spirit and enduring legacy, ensuring that each bottle of Ruinart Champagne reflects the passion, dedication, and artistry that have defined the brand for nearly three centuries. Through its unwavering commitment to quality and innovation, Ruinart continues to captivate the hearts and palates of wine lovers around the world, inviting them to experience the timeless elegance and exquisite craftsmanship of Champagne at its finest.
Craftsmanship and Terroir
At the heart of Ruinart’s winemaking philosophy lies an unwavering commitment to craftsmanship and terroir. Ruinart carefully selects grapes from some of the most prestigious vineyard sites across the Champagne region. Each vineyard brings its own unique characteristics to the final blend, contributing to the complexity and depth of Ruinart’s Champagnes. Chardonnay, the signature grape of the house, takes center stage in many of Ruinart’s cuvées, lending them a distinctive finesse, freshness, and elegance.
images: Ruinart – Mathieu Bonnevie
Ruinart’s dedication to terroir extends beyond grape selection to meticulous vineyard management practices. From soil composition to microclimate nuances, every aspect of the vineyard is carefully considered to ensure optimal grape ripeness and flavor development. By nurturing the vines with respect for the land and its natural rhythms, Ruinart preserves the integrity of its terroir while crafting Champagnes of exceptional quality and character.
The Art of Blending
One of the hallmarks of Ruinart Champagne is its artful blending, a tradition that has been honed and perfected over centuries. Led by the cellar master and his team of expert winemakers, Ruinart employs a meticulous approach to blending, drawing upon a diverse selection of wines from different vineyard parcels to create harmonious and balanced cuvées.
Among Ruinart’s esteemed cuvées is the Blanc de Blancs, a pure expression of Chardonnay sourced from the finest vineyards in the Côte des Blancs and Montagne de Reims regions. This elegant Champagne captivates with its delicate floral aromas, vibrant citrus notes, and refined minerality, showcasing the true essence of Ruinart’s terroir.
Another standout offering is Ruinart’s Rosé Champagne, crafted from a blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes. With its seductive pink hue and exuberant red fruit aromas, this cuvée exudes sophistication and charm, making it an ideal choice for special occasions and celebrations.
images: Ruinart
In addition to its classic cuvées, Ruinart also offers limited edition releases and prestige cuvées that showcase the pinnacle of the house’s winemaking expertise. These rare and sought-after Champagnes exemplify the artistry and precision that define Ruinart’s commitment to excellence, delighting enthusiasts with their complexity, depth, and finesse.
Through its dedication to craftsmanship, terroir, and the art of blending, Ruinart continues to uphold its legacy as one of the world’s most esteemed Champagne houses, enchanting wine lovers with its exceptional wines and timeless elegance.
Timeless Elegance
Beyond its exceptional craftsmanship, Ruinart is synonymous with timeless elegance and sophistication. From its iconic bottle design to its refined packaging, every aspect of the brand reflects a sense of luxury and refinement. Whether enjoyed on special occasions or as an everyday indulgence, Ruinart Champagne elevates any moment with its effervescent charm and allure.
Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship
As custodians of the land, Ruinart is deeply committed to sustainability and environmental stewardship. Recognizing the importance of preserving the Champagne region’s rich biodiversity, the house implements eco-friendly practices throughout its production process. From organic farming methods to energy-efficient facilities, Ruinart strives to minimize its environmental footprint while preserving the integrity of the land for future generations.
A Global Icon
Over the centuries, Ruinart has captivated the palates of discerning connoisseurs around the world, earning acclaim and accolades for its exceptional quality and craftsmanship. From royal courts to prestigious events, Ruinart Champagne has been a fixture in moments of celebration and refinement. Today, the brand continues to inspire and delight aficionados across the globe, remaining true to its heritage while embracing innovation and evolution.
In a world where trends come and go, Ruinart Champagne stands as a timeless symbol of elegance, craftsmanship, and excellence. With a legacy rooted in tradition and a commitment to innovation, the house continues to set the standard for fine Champagne, captivating hearts and palates with every sip. As we raise a glass to celebrate life’s moments, let us toast to the enduring legacy of Ruinart, a beacon of sophistication and savoir-faire in the world of Champagne. Cheers to the art of living, elevated by the effervescent charm of Ruinart Champagne.