Pale 14ct gold. Initially some slightly evolved flavours of stewed fruits. Fruity nose of peaches and citrus. Some mustiness but overall elegant. Good, fine mousse. Good complexity and balance. Malo-lactic fermentation. The wines are quite moderately 'dosed' - 8g/litre'. A bold wine.
Frederic Panïotis, cellar master of Ruinart: Doesn't see MLF as a way to keep acidity in warmer years because he believes going though MLF gives it a different structure on the palate and makes it much creamier with less harshness. There is slightly less Chardonnay than in the 2004 which makes an enormous difference.
See Ruinart, 2004