Earlier this year, the picturesque UK was host to the renowned Champagne & Sparkling Wine World Championships, which celebrated its 11th iteration of the prestigious event. Dubbed the “largest and toughest sparkling wine competition globally,” the event drew an esteemed panel of experts and connoisseurs from across the wine industry for several days of rigorous blind tastings. As attendees savored a myriad of sparkling wines, one exceptional label stood out among the crowd and was honored with the prestigious title of “supreme world champion.” This title was bestowed upon a magnum bottle of Dom Ruinart 2007 Blanc de Blancs, a true testament to the quality and craftsmanship that the Champagne house embodies.
A Sensory Experience
The 2007 Blanc de Blancs is not just another label; it encapsulates a meticulous process that begins long before the first taste. With a heritage that spans 295 years, Maison Ruinart, located in the heart of Reims, France, has perfected the art of Champagne production. The magnum’s aroma reveals an inviting bouquet of fresh grapefruit, marzipan, and delicate notes of jasmine tea that tantalize the senses. Each sip delivers a palate experience that oscillates between toasty brioche and indulgent mocha, culminating in an intriguing finish that offers a lingering menthol tickle. The wine’s inherent brightness and vigor are underscored by its predominantly chardonnay composition—a hallmark of the house, as the Blanc de Blancs is consistently crafted from a blend of 25-30 crus from illustrious regions such as Côté des Blancs and Montagne de Reims.
This particular vintage uniquely highlights the stewardship of Frédéric Panaïotis, the newly appointed Chef de Caves. His emphasis on sourcing fruit from premier crus, particularly the Côté des Blancs, exemplifies a fresh approach in Ruinart’s tradition. As acknowledged by celebrated sommelier Amy Racine, this wine boasts remarkable purity coupled with an intensity seldom found in sparkling wines. The bright acidity serves as a backbone, guiding us through a long, lingering finish—a characteristic often coveted by both casual drinkers and seasoned sommeliers alike.
Racine’s personal enthusiasm further enhances the allure of this vintage, as she describes the magnum format not only as a visual delight but as an essential vessel for flavor development. “The larger size slows down oxidation,” she notes, “thereby allowing for intricate layers of flavor while preserving the fine bubbles that Champagne lovers seek.” This expert insight not only elucidates the importance of the magnum format but also reinforces what makes this 2007 vintage a stunning showcase of the house’s dedication to quality.
With a modest alcohol content of 12.5% ABV, the Dom Ruinart 2007 Blanc de Blancs commands an impressive retail price of $600 for the 1.5-liter magnum format. As the holiday season approaches, and with such a prestigious accolade in its repertoire, it is prudent to act swiftly should this wine grace your wishlist. Recent trends indicate that U.S. drinkers are gearing up to consume an astounding 360 million glasses of sparkling wine as New Year’s Eve approaches. Such demand could culminate in a swift depletion of available stock. Therefore, if you have the opportunity to secure a bottle, it would surely serve as an exquisite addition to any festive celebration.
The Legacy of Ruinart
Even if the 2007 Blanc de Blancs is elusive, the enchanting legacy of Ruinart remains abundant in selections that retain the house’s hallmark finesse. “Ruinart is arguably the most renowned Champagne house,” Racine asserts, and this statement rings true when considering its illustrious history. Founded in 1729, it stands as the oldest Champagne house still in operation, gracefully overcoming adversity through turbulent times, including the World Wars. Its iconic chalk cellars in Reims provide the perfect environment for aging and enhancing the wines produced within its storied walls.
As we await the next celebration of sparkling wines, let us remember the excellence embodied in Dom Ruinart’s offerings, particularly the remarkable 2007 Blanc de Blancs, which has captured the hearts of enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike. This sparkling gem is not merely a beverage; it is a celebration of tradition, craftsmanship, and the artistry of wine-making that enchantingly unfurls with each delightful sip.