The warm lighting of the Champagne Ruinart cellars, with several triangular shelves lined along the cave walls storing hundreds of bottles, in Reims, Champagne, France.
March 28, 2025

What to Expect on a Ruinart Champagne Tasting Tour

Ruinart is no ordinary Champagne house – it’s the oldest of them all. Established in 1729, this prestigious maison has spent centuries perfecting its craft, creating some of the most distinguished Champagnes in the world.

A visit to Ruinart is more than just a tasting; it’s an invitation to step inside an extraordinary legacy. From its awe-inspiring chalk cellars to the meticulous art of blending each cuvée, this experience is a must-do for any Champagne lover.

Whether you’re a Ruinart enthusiast or just beginning to explore the world of fine Champagne, here’s everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable visit.

Visiting House Ruinart

The tidy gardens surrounded by the elegant architecture of the Maison Ruinart, on a bright day in Reims, Champagne, France

A Ruinart tasting isn’t just about what’s in the glass – it’s a deep dive into centuries of tradition, artistry and innovation.

Your experience starts with a journey through the brand’s past, tracing its roots back to Dom Thierry Ruinart, the monk who helped to champion Champagne’s global potential. Unlike many houses, Ruinart has remained devoted to Chardonnay as the backbone of its style, producing luminous, elegant and precise Champagnes through the years.

Then comes one of the true highlights: stepping into Ruinart’s legendary crayères. These vast, cathedral-like chalk cellars, carved deep beneath Reims, are a UNESCO World Heritage site and a true sight to behold. It’s here where the bottles rest for years, slowly developing the signature finesse that defines Ruinart.

The Ruinart tasting experience

Three golden bottles of Ruinart Champagne, Blanc de Blancs, placed side by side, on a window shelf, in the Maison Ruinart, in Reims, Champagne, France

Of course, the real magic happens during the tasting. Depending on your chosen experience, you’ll have the chance to sample the house’s signature Blanc de Blancs, the rich and complex Dom Ruinart or even an exclusive vintage release. Some tastings also feature gourmet food pairings, elevating the experience even further.

Since Ruinart keeps its tastings intimate, visits are by reservation only – and demand is high. If you’re eager to experience this Champagne house, be sure to book well in advance.

What to pair with a Ruinart visit

Lush green views in Vallee de la Marne in France's Champagne region

A Ruinart tasting is an unforgettable experience, but to truly appreciate the diversity of Champagne, we recommend pairing it with a visit to a boutique grower.

Independent Champagne producers offer a different perspective, often allowing you to meet the winemakers themselves and explore more experimental, terroir-driven styles.

Experiencing the contrast between Ruinart’s heritage and a small, family-run vineyard will give you a well-rounded appreciation of the region’s craftsmanship.

Not sure where to start? We recommend a boutique producer in Côte des Blancs or Vallée de la Marne, where Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier shine in unique, expressive ways.

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Book a Luxurious Champagne Experience with SmoothRed

Hautvillers Abbey sat partially covered behind two large trees in an overcast day in the Champagne district Vallee de la Marne in France.

For the best kind of elevated Champagne experience, our VIP Luxury Champagne Experience combines a visit to Ruinart with other world-class houses and exclusive hidden gems.

Our VIP Champagne experience includes:

  • A rare, behind-the-scenes look at Ruinart’s historic crayères.
  • A luxurious, five-star hotel stay and Michelin-starred dining.
  • A Champagne and music pairing at the legendary House of Krug.
  • An immersive journey through Dom Pérignon’s origins in Hautvillers.
  • A private tasting at an exclusive boutique producer.

Given the exclusivity of these experiences, we highly recommend booking early – especially for peak travel seasons.

Explore the VIP Luxury Champagne Tour

Experience Champagne like an insider with SmoothRed

At SmoothRed, we specialise in crafting extraordinary wine experiences, tailored to your preferences.

From private vineyard visits to exclusive tastings and bespoke itineraries, we’ll design the perfect Champagne adventure for you. Get in touch today to start planning your ultimate trip to Champagne!

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A beautiful sunset over the vast vineyards of the Champagne region, France.

How to Plan Your Visit to Ruinart

A little planning goes a long way in ensuring your visit to Ruinart is seamless. Here’s what you need to know:

What's the best Time to Visit Ruinart?

Spring and autumn offer the best conditions for a relaxed, immersive experience, with mild weather and fewer crowds. If you want to soak up the excitement of harvest season, September is an excellent time to visit, as the vineyards buzz with activity.

How Far in Advance Should You Book?

Ruinart’s tastings are in high demand, and spots fill up quickly. We recommend securing your reservation at least three months ahead, especially if you’re traveling during peak season. Need assistance? We can handle the booking for you.

What should you wear for a Ruinart Tasting?

While there’s no formal dress code, smart-casual is the best approach – think polished yet comfortable. Also, keep in mind that the chalk cellars stay cool year-round, so bringing a light layer is a good idea. And as always, avoid strong perfumes, as they can interfere with the tasting experience.

How Long Does a Ruinart Tasting Last?

Most experiences last between 1.5 and 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore the cellars, learn about the winemaking process, and, of course, enjoy the Champagne.

Have more questions?

(+44) 020 8877 4940 (UK)
(+1) 646 968 0388 (US and Canada)
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