Champagne Ayala, founded in 1860, stands as a testament to the vision of its founder and the dedication of generations who have maintained its commitment to quality and innovation. The story of Champagne Ayala begins with Edmond de Ayala, a man whose name seemed destined for the world of Champagne. Born into a Spanish-Basque aristocratic family, Edmond arrived in Aÿ in 1855 with a burning desire to unravel the secrets of champagne-making. His charm and entrepreneurial spirit caught the attention of Gabrielle, the only daughter of the Count of Mareuil, whom he married in 1858. As a wedding dowry, Edmond received the Château d'Aÿ and its vineyards, laying the foundation for what would become Champagne Ayala.
In 2005, a new chapter began for Ayala when it was acquired by the Bollinger family. This acquisition brought renewed focus and investment to the house, including the construction of a new winery in 2007. Under the leadership of new Managing Director Hadrien Mouflard and Cellar Master Caroline Latrive, Ayala began to reaffirm its identity and style.
Ayala's Brut Majeur is sourced from the finest estates of Champagne, and is a perfect expression of the winery's savoir-faire.
This wine has been aged on its lees for almost 3 years. With a dosage of 7 grams per litre, it has a delicate light pink colour, a fresh palate, fruity aromas (redcurrant, raspberry) and a fruity, persistent, full-bodied and seductive finish.
🏅 James Suckling 93 pts
A flavorful, precise and lively blend of 51% chardonnay, 39% pinot noir and 10% pinot meunier. On the nose aromas of peach skins, plums and warm herbs mingle nicely and follow through to a medium body with fine bubbles. Fruity and agile with succulence at the center and a salivating finish with length. Disgorged in 2022. Dosage 6g/L. Drink now.(2024)
🏅 Wine Spectator 92 pts
There’s a firm, chalky edge to this mineral Champagne, and mouthwatering flavors of candied lemon peel, green apple, crystallized honey and biscuit. This has an elegant texture and an overall sense of style.
🏅 Wine Enthusiast 91 pts
Now owned by the Bollinger family, Ayala’s Champagnes have seen great improvement in recent years. This non-vintage Brut is complex, with its dry character given weight by a hint of toast, almonds and a taut aftertaste.
🏅 Vinous 91 pts
(50% Chardonnay, 40% Pinot Noir and 10% Pinot Meunier; 7 g/l dosage; disgorged in March, 2014; L1427A4B03): Bright orange-pink. Fresh strawberry and tangerine on the lively floral nose and in the mouth. Spicy and incisive, with sappy red fruit and rose pastille flavors underscored by juicy acidity and a subtle chalky nuance. A mineral element adds bite to the finish, which hangs on with strong tenacity and repeating floral character. Six percent of the Pinot Noir component in this blend is in the form of still Pinot Noir from vineyards in the Montagne de Reims.
