Champagne Dom Ruinart Rose 2009

Winery Background:

Ruinart is the oldest established Champagne house, founded in 1729 by Nicolas Ruinart. Known for its dedication to Chardonnay, Ruinart produces some of the finest and most elegant Champagnes. The Dom Ruinart line represents the house’s prestige cuvée, crafted only in exceptional vintages. The Dom Ruinart Rosé 2009 is a standout expression of Ruinart’s expertise in creating complex and refined rosé Champagne.

The 2009 vintage experienced warm, sunny conditions, which allowed the grapes to ripen fully, resulting in a rosé Champagne with richness, depth, and structure. Dom Ruinart Rosé is primarily made from Chardonnay (about 85%) sourced from Grand Cru vineyards, with the addition of Pinot Noir (about 15%) that is vinified as red wine, which gives the rosé its distinctive color and structure.

Tasting Notes:

• Color: A vibrant pink with coppery reflections and a fine, persistent mousse.

• Nose: The nose is complex and expressive, offering aromas of ripe red fruits like wild strawberries, raspberries, and cherries, combined with floral notes of rose petals and hints of orange zest. Subtle underlying notes of toasted brioche, almonds, and light spices add further complexity.

• Palate: On the palate, the Champagne is full-bodied and rich, with fine bubbles and a creamy texture. Flavors of fresh red berries are balanced by a vibrant acidity and minerality. There are also hints of citrus, ginger, and subtle oak that lead to a long, elegant finish.

• Aging Potential: While already showing beautifully, Dom Ruinart Rosé 2009 has the structure to age gracefully for another 10-15 years, developing even more complexity.

Wine Pairing:

Dom Ruinart Rosé 2009 is versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes, particularly those with rich flavors:

• Seafood: Lobster, langoustines, or tuna tartare.

• Meat: Roasted duck or lamb with berry-based sauces.

• Cheese: Aged gouda or mature Comté.

• Asian cuisine: Dishes with umami flavors, such as Peking duck or soy-based marinades.

• Dessert: Red fruit tarts or macarons.

Scores:

• Wine Spectator: 96 points

• Wine Enthusiast: 97 points

• Robert Parker (The Wine Advocate): 95 points

• James Suckling: 98 points

The Dom Ruinart Rosé 2009 is an exceptional rosé Champagne, with richness, depth, and finesse, making it perfect for special occasions or as a luxurious gift. Its complexity and elegance shine through, and it has the potential to age beautifully over the years.