Ruinart : Second Skin Blanc de Blancs

This is a fabulous version of Ruinart’s NV Brut Blanc de Blancs. The wine seems fresher, more vibrant and less obviously sweet than in the past, all of which makes this a far more interesting wine. The trademark profile of lemon, jasmine and green apples is very much in the forefront while the wine’s textural finesse and length are both first-class. This release of the NV Brut makes a great introduction to the wines of Ruinart, Champagne’s oldest house. This is Lot LAGJSAF. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2014. Importer: Moet Hennessy USA, New York, NY; tel. (212) 251-8200

Apple, honey and vanilla flavors mark this rich Champagne. Its lush texture has immediate appeal, and the vanilla and pastry finish lingers. Drink now.

Brimming with pear, white peach and citrus fruit, this enchanting Blanc de Blancs is so bright and succulent and is very hard to resist. I love the very long, silky and clean finish, which has beautiful balance. Really fine mousse. Drink now.

This is a fabulous version of Ruinart's NV Brut Blanc de Blancs. The wine seems fresher, more vibrant and less obviously sweet than in the past, all of which makes this a far more interesting wine. The trademark profile of lemon, jasmine and green apples is very much in the forefront while the wine's textural finesse and length are both first-class. This release of the NV Brut makes a great introduction to the wines of Ruinart, Champagne's oldest house. This is Lot LAGJSAF.

Light greenish yellow with an energetic mousse. Delicately nutty background character underlies ripe yellow apple fruit, and a fine smoky minerality, alongside a touch of peach, some blossom honey. Powerful, taut and ripe – shades of a tropical fruitbowl supported by finessed acidity and some honey notes. Has good length with a pronounced fruit character on the finish, a hefty companion to food.

The NV Champagne Blanc De Blancs Brut comes mostly from the 2021 base vintage, with 40% reserve wine used (about 10% more than in more productive years due to losses from mildew pressure in the vintage). Fermented entirely in stainless steel with full malolactic, it pours a bright silver/straw color, and the nose is very appealing, with aromas of bread dough, attractive white flowers, citrus zest, and fresh lime. Easygoing and approachable, it has a chalky textural feel with a kiss of sweet fruit and is quite elegant. It’s perfect for drinking now or over the next 5–6 years. 7 grams of dosage per liter.

Superb aromatic palette combining citrus zest, chalk, and floral notes; vibrant on the palate, velvety, with a remarkable fruit maturity.

Fine, abundant bubbles. The nose opens on a very classic profile, with a touch of reduction that doesn’t fully release the aromas. Aeration reveals citrus nuances combined with hazelnut and fresh bread crumb. The palate shows a lovely, broad and creamy attack; the bubbles are well managed, the juice is balanced, and a light dosage clings to the palate on the finish.

Ruinart is a specialist in Blanc de Blancs Champagne. This wine is finely balanced between maturity and taut fresh, mineral-driven fruit. From the Côte des Blancs, the wine is poised and ready to drink.