Releasing a Dom Ruinart cuvée is a rare opportunity to discover the imprint of a year in a great Blanc de Blancs. 2013 was marked by a very late harvest bringing more freshness and toasty aromas enhanced by ageing under cork.

THE VINTAGE

The year 2013 stands out as a year unlikely to be seen again soon. It was characterized by a winter and especially a spring that was both rainy and cool. Despite no spring frost damage, the temperature in the first six months was the lowest recorded in 20 years.

This climate slowed down the vegetative cycle, delaying the harvest until the end of September. This late ripening of the grapes revealed a unique balance, specific to the climatic conditions of the year, promising wines of great finesse.

TASTING NOTES

On the eye: The wine presents an intense golden hue with green reflections, displaying silvery nuances that attest to its youthful character, supported by this late vintage.

On the nose: A complex array of aromas, with exceptional freshness. It opens with distinct toasty notes, featuring hints of dried fruits like almond and ripe wheat, with pastry-like undertones. Intense citrus scents and zesty juicy fruits accentuate the wine’s freshness. These aromas harmoniously blend with spring flower fragrances and a more mineral and powdery dimension reminiscent of chalk, complemented by delicate smoky notes.

On the palate: The wine distinguishes itself with its straight and chiseled structure, once again supported by the wine’s crystalline freshness, in perfect harmony with the nose. The overall aromatic palette asserts itself with intensity and precision. Citrus aromas, in particular, find their extension in lively and fruity spicy fragrances, where peppery notes carry the wine’s length.

PAIRING

The fruitiness and freshness of the wine has led Valérie Radou, chef in residence at Ruinart, to combine this cuvée with fluid textures and also fresh ingredients. She recommends pairing this cuvée with vegetable-based dishes such as parsnip, or with firm-fleshed fish and seafood such as turbot or oysters.

TECHNICAL INFORMATION

Varietals: 100% Chardonnay

Appellation: Assembled exclusively from Grands and Premiers Crus. 70% Côte des Blancs (Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, Avize, Chouilly and Bergères-lès-Vertus). 30% Montagne de Reims (Vernezay, Sillery, Taissy, Villers-Marmery).

Aging: 9 years on lees.