Champagne Ruinart Rosé is a delightful, elegant, and complex wine that has captivated wine enthusiasts worldwide. If you’ve ever wondered about the story behind this luxurious champagne, you’re in for a treat! This article will delve into the rich history of the house, the unique style of this rosé, and the intricate details that make it so special. We will also provide tasting notes, technical notes, and food pairing suggestions to enhance your experience of this exquisite champagne.
The History of Maison Ruinart
Established in 1729, Maison Ruinart is the oldest champagne house in existence. It was founded by Nicolas Ruinart, a visionary entrepreneur who recognized the potential of sparkling wines from the Champagne region. Nicolas Ruinart started his business by offering champagne as a gift to his clients, and soon after, he officially established Maison Ruinart as a champagne-producing house.
The house has thrived for nearly three centuries, maintaining its commitment to quality and innovation. Over the years, Maison Ruinart has been an innovator in the champagne industry, including introducing the first-ever rosé champagne in 1764. Ruinart’s legacy of excellence continues to the present day, making it a favourite among wine connoisseurs.
The Birth of Ruinart Rosé
Ruinart Rosé was first introduced in the 1960s, marking a new chapter in the house’s history. Its creation was inspired by the growing popularity of rosé wines, as well as the desire to explore new styles and expressions of the Champagne terroir. The winemakers at Ruinart sought to create a champagne that would showcase the unique characteristics of both Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes while offering a fresh, vibrant, and elegant wine experience.
The Unique Production Process
The production of Ruinart Rosé is a careful blend of two grape varieties: Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. This combination is crucial in creating the champagne’s unique character and elegance. Let’s take a closer look at each of these grape varieties and the vinification process.
The Chardonnay Grape
Chardonnay grapes provide the wine with its fresh, crisp, and mineral-driven character. Sourced from the Côte des Blancs and Montagne de Reims, these grapes give Ruinart Rosé its backbone and structure. Chardonnay is often considered the “heart and soul” of Maison Ruinart, as its bright acidity and finesse bring a certain elegance to all of their champagnes.
The Pinot Noir Grape
Pinot Noir grapes, grown mainly in the Montagne de Reims and Vallée de la Marne, contribute to the wine’s depth, body, and fruitiness. The use of both still red wine and white wine in the blend helps to create the rosé’s distinctive colour and flavour profile. The Pinot Noir grapes provide structure and richness to the wine, as well as the beautiful red fruit flavours that make Ruinart Rosé so enticing.
The Vinification Process
The grapes are hand-picked and carefully sorted before undergoing a gentle pressing. The juice is then fermented in stainless steel vats, followed by a second fermentation in the bottle, according to the traditional méthode champenoise. This process involves aging the champagne on its lees (dead yeast cells) for a minimum of 36 months, which imparts complexity and depth to the wine. The bottles are then riddled, a process in which the sediment from the dead yeast cells is gradually moved towards the bottle’s neck. Finally, the sediment is removed, and a small amount of sugar is added (called the dosage) before the bottle is sealed with a cork.
Tasting Notes
Now that we have a better understanding of the production process, let’s explore the sensory experience of enjoying a glass of Ruinart Rosé.
To the eye
Ruinart Rosé displays a delicate salmon-pink hue, with fine, persistent bubbles that enchant the eye. The wine’s beautiful colour is a result of the careful blending of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes, as well as the addition of still red wine.
To the nose
The nose is an enticing bouquet of fresh red fruits, such as strawberries and raspberries, mingling with floral notes of rose and hints of brioche. Subtle citrus and mineral undertones add to the wine’s complexity and allure. As you swirl the glass, you may also notice delicate aromas of cherry, pomegranate, and a touch of spice.
On the palate
On the palate, Ruinart Rosé exhibits a harmonious balance between its vibrant fruitiness and refined acidity. The wine’s silky texture is complemented by flavours of ripe red berries, juicy blood orange, and delicate rose petals. A touch of spice and a subtle creaminess add depth and nuance to the tasting experience, making each sip more enjoyable than the last.
The finish is long, refreshing, and elegant, leaving a lingering impression of fruit and minerality that invites you to take another sip. The wine’s acidity and effervescence cleanse the palate, preparing it for the next taste or food pairing.
Technical Notes for Ruinart Rosé
Before we explore food pairings, let’s take a moment to review some technical details about Ruinart Rosé:
- Blend composition: Approximately 45% Chardonnay and 55% Pinot Noir (of which 18-19% is still red wine)
- Ageing: Aged on lees for a minimum of 36 months
- Dosage: 9 g/l, making it a Brut champagne
- Serving temperature: 8-10°C (46-50°F)
Food Pairings for Ruinart Rosé
Ruinart Rosé’s versatility and complexity make it an excellent companion for a wide range of dishes. Its bright acidity and fruity flavours complement a variety of ingredients, while its refined structure allows it to stand up to richer dishes. Some suggested pairings include:
- Seafood: Grilled prawns, lobster, or scallops with a light citrus or herb-infused butter sauce
- Poultry: Roasted duck or chicken with berry-based sauces, such as a raspberry or blackberry reduction
- Charcuterie: A selection of cured meats and pâtés, served with crusty bread, cornichons, and grainy mustard
- Sushi: Salmon or tuna sashimi, or maki rolls with avocado and cucumber, served with a side of soy sauce and wasabi
- Desserts: Fresh fruit tarts, strawberry shortcake, or raspberry mille-feuille, which will complement the wine’s red fruit flavours
Champagne Ruinart Rosé is a captivating and sophisticated wine that showcases the artistry and heritage of the world’s oldest champagne house. Its unique production process, exceptional quality, and versatile food pairing options make it a true gem in the world of wine. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, a glass of Ruinart Rosé is sure to elevate your experience.
So, the next time you’re looking for a champagne that embodies elegance, sophistication, and a rich history, look no further than Champagne Ruinart Rosé. Its enchanting salmon-pink hue, delicate effervescence, and alluring flavours will transport you on a sensory journey through the world of fine wine.
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Champagne Ruinart Rosé FAQs
Q: What is the price range for a bottle of Champagne Ruinart Rosé?
A: The price may vary depending on the retailer and location, but it typically ranges from $80 to $100 per bottle.
Q: How should I store Champagne Ruinart Rosé?
A: Store the champagne in a cool, dark place with consistent temperature and humidity levels, ideally between 10-15°C (50-59°F) and 70% humidity.
Q: Can I age Champagne Ruinart Rosé? If so, for how long?
A: Although Ruinart Rosé can be enjoyed upon release, it may also be aged for up to 5 years to develop additional complexity.
Q: What sets Ruinart Rosé apart from other rosé champagnes?
A: Ruinart Rosé is distinguished by its unique blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes, as well as the use of still red wine in its production. Its elegant, refined character and versatility make it a standout choice among rosé champagnes.
Q: Can I enjoy Champagne Ruinart Rosé on its own, or should I pair it with food?
A: Ruinart Rosé is delicious both as an aperitif and when paired with a variety of dishes. Its complex flavours and balanced acidity make it an excellent companion to seafood, poultry, charcuterie, sushi, and desserts. Cheers to discovering and enjoying the world of Champagne Ruinart Rosé!
