Every year, the Champagne & Sparkling Wine World Championships assembles expert judges and connoisseurs to evaluate exceptional sparkling wines from around the globe. This prestigious competition, widely regarded as the most formidable and expansive of its kind, returned to the UK for its 11th edition. Among the eager participants, producers were held to rigorous blind tasting standards, cultivating an environment where only the finest examples could emerge victorious. With the results now verified, industry experts heralded one sparkling wine as the “supreme world champion” — a magnum bottle of Dom Ruinart 2007 Blanc de Blancs.
Dom Ruinart has long been a paragon of excellence in the Champagne realm, and the year 2007 marks a significant milestone featuring a blend of grapes from various crus. Known for its crispness and elegance, the 2007 Blanc de Blancs elevates expectations. Its complex aroma bouquet features vibrant notes of fresh grapefruit, marzipan, and a whisper of jasmine tea. The palate harmoniously balances toasty characteristics with rich brioche and mocha nuances, concluding with a tantalizing menthol finish. Such depth signals a meticulous approach in crafting this wine; indeed, it exemplifies the house’s commitment to fine Chardonnay offerings.
Celebrated sommelier Amy Racine, who holds influential positions at JF Restaurants, identifies this wine as not just another bottling but as “a wine of remarkable purity and intensity.” The 2007 vintage draws predominantly from the Côte des Blancs, with 25-30 crus expertly curated to reflect the true essence of the terroir.
Frédéric Panaïotis, Maison Ruinart’s newly appointed Chef de Caves, embraced the task of producing a Chardonnay-centric wine that emphasizes the beauty of this varietal. Under his guidance, the 2007 vintage showcases a discernible focus on craftsmanship and quality, leading to an experience that resonates with complexities found in wines that have spent extensive time on the lees.
Racine explains that this magnum format is not merely aesthetic; “The magnum is important here as the larger size slows down oxidation to allow space for complex flavor development,” she notes. This extended maturation profile contributes to the preservation of delicate bubbles, resulting in a sparkling wine that epitomizes luxury and sophistication. Aging for a minimum of nine years, Dom Ruinart 2007 surpasses the AOC’s stipulation of three years, further distinguishing itself within the competitive sparkling wine arena.
As consumers, we often grapple with choices regarding sparkling wines, especially during festive seasons. The 12.5% ABV Dom Ruinart 2007 Blanc de Blancs carries a price tag of $600 for the magnum format, a decision that might stretch holiday budgets yet promises an unparalleled experience. With accolades like “supreme world champion,” the rapidly diminishing availability of the wine underscores the importance of prompt purchase. The buzz surrounding this designation foreshadows an influx of sparkling wine consumption, particularly as New Year’s Eve approaches, when over 360 million glasses are expected to be enjoyed in the United States alone.
Racine, a steadfast advocate for all Ruinart expressions, emphasizes the brand’s reputation: “It is arguably the most renowned,” she asserts. The envy and admiration surrounding the house stem from its resilience; founded in 1729, it has successfully weathered historical upheavals while fostering an enduring legacy. Ruinart’s iconic chalk cellars in Reims not only fortify the history of the brand but also serve as optimal aging conditions, allowing their champagnes to flourish.
In a world overflowing with choices, Dom Ruinart 2007 Blanc de Blancs rises above the crowd to claim its rightful place as the supreme world champion. A perfect illustration of fine winemaking craftsmanship, this exceptional champagne captures the essence of celebration and extravagance. As the holidays approach, whether indulging in its luxurious depths or sharing it among friends, remember that the experience offered by such a remarkable bottle is truly one of a kind. Cheers to the magic of sparkling wine!
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