Although Ruinart has the honor of being France’s oldest established Champagne house, it has often been called the “best Champagne you’ve never heard of.” Less than 50 acres, Ruinart was founded by Nicolas Ruinart, a textile entrepreneur, in 1728, and has been exclusively producing Champagne since 1729. First used as gifts for his business clients, the wine was so successful that six years later, Ruinart abandonedcloth for grapes, and focused exclusively on the production of Champagne. Centuries later, Ruinartfelt the impact of 20th century global catastrophes, notably two World Wars. For all its past success, the mid-1940s dealt the House a major blow, leaving it with only 800 cases in its cellar and a total of two Parisian customers. After its acquisition by France’s luxury LVMH Group, the brand reinvented itself, becoming less dependent on the French market. The investment paid off; deliberately steering clear of the more large-scale, highly commercial markets, Ruinart has once again become a favorite among discerning oenophiles through its presence across sophisticated restaurants and specialty shops. Ruinart is known for its prestige cuvées, with its signature, Chardonnay-only “Blanc de blancs” Dom Ruinart which first appeared in 1959. Dom Ruinart Rosé followed three years later with its distinctive addition of 16% Pinot Noir. The House also produces cuvée R de Ruinartin both Brut non-vintage and vintage. Ruinartwines are aged in ancient, historic chalk pits first built by the Romans, impacting their unique character and ethereal quality.