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A New Era for Maison Ruinart

In March 2026, the renowned champagne house Ruinart will launch its highly anticipated vintage, DOM RUINART 2013. This release marks a significant point in the winery's illustrious history, which began in 1729 in the Champagne region of France. Ruinart has continuously refined its techniques and sensitivities to showcase the unique qualities of Chardonnay, earning accolades as the art of Chardonnay itself.

With Caroline Fiot stepping in as the new Chief Winemaker in January 2026, this vintage promises to reflect the traditions accumulated over three centuries and bring them into a new era. Under her experienced guidance, the winery aims to innovate while respecting the craftsmanship that has defined Ruinart since its inception.

Ruinart's Enduring Legacy

Ruinart, recognized as the oldest champagne house, has taken great strides to amplify the allure of Chardonnay through sophisticated techniques and a keen sense of taste. In 2024, the winery plans to open a new pavilion on 4 Rue des Crayères, serving as a cultural hub where visitors can immerse themselves in the rich history and expertise of Ruinart.

The domino effect of innovation and heritage flows seamlessly into the DOM RUINART 2013 vintage. Since its first vintage in 1959, DOM RUINART has symbolized the pinnacle of this house’s commitment to crafting exceptional blancs de blancs. As the epitome of craftsmanship, this prestige cuvée stands apart, incorporating the finest qualities of Chardonnay cultivated in the grand cru and premier cru vineyards.

The 2013 Vintage: A Study of Complexity

The 2013 growing season was uniquely challenging due to a cool, rainy winter and spring, leading to a delayed growth cycle. The average temperature during the first half of the year reached a record low of 7.7°C. Consequently, the budding, flowering, and ripening of the grapes lagged compared to other years. Despite the mild summer, unstable weather during fall pushed the harvest timing well beyond the norm.

The late harvesting years often demand meticulous evaluation of grape maturity, acidity, and overall quality—something that Ruinart has mastered. Thanks to careful harvesting decisions, the Chardonnay grapes achieved an ideal balance of ripeness and acidity, resulting in a base wine that displays freshness despite a standard potential alcohol level.

After harvesting, winemaking processes involved temperature-controlled stainless steel fermentation and malolactic fermentation. The wine underwent a minimum of nine years of aging on its lees, culminating in a vintage that deeply embodies the artistry of Chardonnay.

Tasting Notes of DOM RUINART 2013

Upon pouring, a vibrant golden-yellow color, tinged with green nuances, captures the eye. The nose opens with complex aromas—first showcasing vivid toasty notes, followed by deeper hints of dry fruits, almond, and a hint of pastry. Citrus elements like grapefruit and lemon peel emerge alongside a mineral presence reminiscent of chalk, creating a blend of tension and complexity.

On the palate, DOM RUINART 2013 reveals a clearly defined structure and crystalline freshness that balances beautifully. As each sip unfolds, the concentrated flavors transition into lively fruitiness enhanced by notes of white pepper and silky grains.

Perfect Pairings

For an exquisite tasting experience, consider pairing this exceptional vintage with:

• - Royal carrot chips with chestnut cream
• - Fresh oysters and cauliflowers
• - Sole with Champagne sauce sprinkled with sesame seaweed salt

About Caroline Fiot

Caroline Fiot, educated in agricultural engineering and oenology at Montpellier's Agro Institute, has amassed international experience in the USA and Vietnam. Joining the Ruinart team in 2016, she has played a pivotal role in various capacities, focusing on fermentation management and the development of “Second Skin.” Following significant roles at Moët & Chandon, Caroline is set to lead Ruinart as Chief Winemaker, bringing fresh perspectives to an ancient heritage.

A Craftsmanship Legacy

Since its establishment, Ruinart has been hailed as the “jewel of Champagne,” garnering a reputation for its commitment to quality and refinement. The winery specializes in selecting only the finest grapes from the Côte des Blancs and Montagne de Reims regions, striving for purity, delicacy, and elegance in their crafting techniques.

Utilizing the historical chalk cellars designated as a French historical monument since 1931, Ruinart offers ideal conditions for aging champagne, completing the art of Chardonnay in an exquisite fashion.

For more information about Ruinart and their stunning wines, visit their official website.