R de Ruinart Brut NV, Champagne

Established in 1729, Ruinart has the distinction of being the oldest Champagne house. Founded by wealthy cloth merchant Nicolas Ruinart who was inspired by his uncle the benedictine monk Dom Thierry Ruinart, a close friend and contemporary of Dom Perignon. Initially the champagne produced was given away to Nicolas's wealthy clients as a reward for purchasing his cloth and fabrics, however when the demand became so great, it was clear what direction the company was to take. In 1735 they abandoned the cloth trade, to concentrate on the burgeoning champagne trade.

51% Pinot Noir, 40% Chardonnay, 9% Pinot meunier; a blend of around 50 different crus across Champagne, though includes little Aube; reserves from 2010 and 2009; full malolactic fermentation; 9g/L dosage

After Panaiotis joined Ruinart, he recalls that 'it took a couple of years to figure out what was going on, and 2009 was the first year when i said, 'Right, we can now start to do things! I don't think there's much I can do with the blanc de blancs or the rose, but I can do things with R de Ruinart!'.