Ruinart, one of the oldest Champagne houses, indeed has two main classifications for their wines – Ruinart and Dom Ruinart. These classifications represent different tiers of quality and style within the Ruinart portfolio.
Let's start with Ruinart, which can be considered the entry-level or standard range of wines from the house. These are non-vintage Champagnes, meaning they are made from a blend of multiple years' harvests. Non-vintage Champagnes are typically crafted to maintain a consistent house style from year to year, showcasing the characteristic flavors and aromas of the Champagne region. Ruinart Champagnes are known for their elegance, finesse, and delicate fruitiness.
On the other hand, Dom Ruinart is the prestige cuvée of the Ruinart brand. It represents the pinnacle of their winemaking and is reserved for their vintage wines. Vintage Champagnes are made from grapes harvested in a single exceptional year, and they are often considered the finest expressions of Champagne. Dom Ruinart Champagnes are produced only in the best years when the quality of the grapes meets the high standards set by the house.
Dom Ruinart wines are crafted with meticulous attention to detail, showcasing the unique characteristics of each vintage. They are known for their complexity, richness, and the ability to age gracefully over time. These Champagnes often exhibit more intense flavors, additional layers of complexity, and a longer finish compared to the standard Ruinart range.
It's worth noting that both Ruinart and Dom Ruinart Champagnes are made using the traditional Champagne grape varieties, including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. However, the specific blend and proportions of these grapes can vary depending on the style and vintage of the wine.
In my personal experience, I have had the pleasure of tasting both Ruinart and Dom Ruinart Champagnes. The Ruinart range impressed me with its refined and balanced character, offering a delightful drinking experience. The Dom Ruinart wines, on the other hand, left a lasting impression with their depth, complexity, and ability to evolve in the glass over time. These Champagnes truly exemplify the artistry and craftsmanship of the Ruinart house.
To summarize, Ruinart and Dom Ruinart represent two tiers of Champagne within the Ruinart portfolio. Ruinart wines are non-vintage Champagnes, known for their elegance and finesse, while Dom Ruinart is the prestigious vintage cuvée, offering greater complexity and aging potential. Both ranges showcase the exceptional quality and style associated with the Ruinart brand.