Ruinart is the oldest Champagne House established in the city of Reims in the French Champagne-Ardenne region.It was created September 1, 1729 in Epernay by Nicolas Ruinart, the nephew of Dom Ruinart, the avant-gardist of champagne wines.
Further to the Royal Decree of May 25, 1728, issued by Louis XV which authorized the transport of wine in bottles, Ruinart, gave a whole new dimension to the family House. Indeed, he came up with the idea of moving the House and the wine cellar to the current family domain situated in Reims.
Magnates Place
A champagne symbolizing French elegance
Meanwhile, the House of Ruinart became the jewel of spirits of LVMH group, which privileges a discreet marketing with an emphasis in the sphere of contemporary art for an exclusive clientele.
The very definition of French elegance!
Well known for its “Blanc de Blancs”, the domain’s impressive champagne cellar is equally famous: without any doubt one of the most beautiful cellars of the Champagne area.
An underground art gallery
45 minutes by train and 50 minutes by helicopter from Paris, the domain opens wide its gates to its guests.
On the menu, the tour of the cellar, followed by a champagne tasting in a private lounge where you are received in small groups (maximum of 10 guests) by the guide who will tell you the history of the House.
By 10 degrees Celsius of average temperature, room by room, you will discover this enchanting site of genuine charm: an authentic underground museum.
Just take one example: the traces of the meticulous work done by the carvers during the 17th century on the chalk walls are spectacular! The Crayères are amazing! Here we get a sense of what the precision of work really means. We also learn some champagne manufacturing techniques developed by the House.
Long story short, the magic just happens!
The best for the tasting
Back again at room temperature, the tour continues by an entertaining tasting of a selection of Ruinart spirits: a pleasant moment of conviviality and exchange between the participants and the guide. I would like to mention that the guided tours are available in different languages.
Magnates Place
Extras
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Visit the Notre Dame Cathedral in Reims, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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Discover the numerous Champagne Houses in Epernay located 7 km away from Reims.
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Taste the local sweets : the Reims “croquignoles” or the shortbread cookies made with almonds and champagne.
