Ruinart Blanc de Blancs NV (375ML)

Mildew pressure in 2021 shaped this release of Ruinart's Blanc de Blancs. That year supplies most of the wine, and Ruinart raised its reserve share to 40%, above the level it uses when harvests are more generous. Fermentation takes place entirely in stainless steel, malolactic runs to completion, and dosage sits at 7 grams per liter. The color is bright straw with silvery highlights. Lime and citrus zest open the nose, followed by white blossom and a hint of fresh dough. On the palate it is supple and approachable, with a fine, chalky feel, a touch of ripe sweetness to the fruit and a poised, graceful finish. It drinks well now, and critics place its best years through 2031. Try it with fried calamari, vegetable tempura, sole meunière or warm gougères.