Champagne Ruelle-Pertois, Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs

Remember Ruelle-Pertois’ 2011 from last year? It was a disgorged-to-order Blanc de Blancs masterpiece that completely recalibrated our understanding of value and led us to exclaim that an equally priced Grand Cru Vintage Champagne of this age, profundity, and sophistication might not exist. Our allocation didn’t survive long: It found over 100+ good homes and subsequently drew dozens of entreaties for more—unfortunately, that was the last of it. Now, channel all of the excitement you had for that stunning bottle (from the trying 2011 vintage, no less) and direct it towards today’s newly disgorged 2012, one of the greatest vintages of modern times. And then realize it still comes in under $60! Read on to learn more about why we consider this tiny grower-producer the best-kept secret in Grand Cru Champagne.Ruelle-Pertois was discovered by importer Charles Neal at about the same time I entered the wine business, and the story behind it speaks volumes to the immense power of exclusivity. I