1996 Ruinart, Champagne RP--94

Robert Parker: 94 Points
In the Cellar #1110 Nov 2010 Antonio Galloni 94 Drink: N/A $174-$225 The 1996 Dom Ruinart, tasted from magnum, is pretty, delicate and floral, very much in keeping with the house style. It shows plenty of 1996 vintage character, if not quite the pedigree of the finest wines. In exchange, it is one of the most open, and accessible Champagnes of the harvest. Philipponnat’s Clos des Goisses, from the April 2006 disgorgement, has begun to fill out its frame nicely, with the Pinot contributing significant breadth and volume on the palate.