Ruinart R de Ruinart is the entry point into the world's oldest Champagne house, founded in Reims in 1729. It's blended from forty to fifty crus across the Côte des Blancs and Montagne de Reims, led by Pinot Noir at 40 to 45%, with Meunier at 10 to 15% and Chardonnay making up the rest.
The colour runs toward chestnut, yellow and gold. On the nose, reinette apple and apricot sit alongside fresh almond and hazelnut, with a touch of elderflower and coriander seed. A second wave of brioche and biscuit leads into a palate of golden fruit, plum tart and ripe stone fruit, round and persistent, before Chardonnay's characteristic freshness carries through the finish.
Ruinart pairs this Brut with vegetarian dishes and cheese, and recommends serving it in a tulip glass to let the aromas open up. Buy six or more bottles and the price drops to $135 each, applied automatically at checkout. Order online or visit Wine More Cellars at Chadstone.
