1964 Dom Ruinart

Following a mediocre vintage in 1963, the growth cycle was improved, and the grape clusters had good setting. Flowering was slightly affected by a cold spell in late June, and numerous crus had shot berries. Chlorosis affected some grapevines during the dry, hot summer. The harvest began on September 16th under two days of rain. However, good weather returned, the sugar content recovered and the acidity remained sufficiently high. The Pinot Noir harvest was particularly generous. Harvest: Baumé 10°7 GL – Total acidity 7.0 g/l H2SO4 – S/A 25.8 Chardonnay: Baumé 11°2 GL – Total acidity 6.9 g/l H2SO4 Yield: 9,320 kg/ha Assemblage: 100% Chardonnay Grand Cru, exclusively from the Côte des Blancs and the Montagne de Reims. Copper colour. Big and full and almost rancio. Not an unpleasant drink but dry on the finish. Still gathering its petticoats around it but actually a bit old and faded. (JR)