1990 Dom Ruinart

An unusually early start to the vegetative cycle left the vines exposed to spring frosts, which in two chilly episodes hit nearly 12,000 ha. Flowering took place in cool temperatures, resulting in poor set and shatter; however, the summer was distinguished by a record 2100 hours of sunshine, unrivalled since 1959! Needless to say, the final balance was remarkable. Harvest: Baumé 10°8 GL – Total acidity 8.0 g/l H2SO4 – pH 3.04 – S/A 22.7 Chardonnay: Baumé 10°7 GL – Total acidity 8.0 g/l H2SO4 Declared yield: 11,963 kg/ha Assemblage: 100% Chardonnay Grand Cru, 50% from the Côte des Blancs with a strong predominance of Cramant, and 50% from the Montagne de Reims.Disgorged Jul 1999 Deep gold. Lovely deep, rich, rather masculine nose. Reminds me a little of Winston Churchill style even! Big and even mushrooms. A sparkling grand cru white burgundy more than a champagne! Real weight... A champagne to drink with a cigar?! Very clean finish. Explosive and alluring. Very different style from the next great vintage, 1996! (JR)