Ayala Brut Majeur

Founded in 1860 by Edmond de Ayala, Ayala is one of the most historic houses in Champagne. It was one of the 18 founding members of the “Grandes Marques de Champagne” syndicate in 1882 and went through a golden age in the 1920s and 1930s, when it was one of the largest 10 houses in Champagne. Known more recently as “the sleeping beauty of Champagne,” it began its fresh ascent to fame when it was purchased the Bollinger group in 2005, since which time it has been painstakingly restored and upgraded.

Based in the village of Aÿ, Ayala is known for its a delicate but pleasurable style, large chardonnay component, and low levels of dosage. The “sleeping beauty” reference is to its jewel-like Art Deco cellars from 1912, consisting of 1.6 miles of chalk tunnels extending 75 feet underground, which provide perfect temperature and humidity. The wines are crafted by Caroline Latrive, one of only 2 female cellar masters in Champagne.

Brut Majeur is a blend of Pinot Noir (40%), Chardonnay (40%) and Pinot Meunier (20%). Pinot Noir and Chardonnay bring vinosity and delicacy together in a very harmoniously balanced blend. The complement of Pinot Meunier adds a charming touch of fruitiness and liveliness. Ayala Brut Majeur contains about 30% reserve wine and remains on the lees for more than 30 months, twice the legal minimum for Champagne. The dosage is notably low, only 7g/L.

Ayala currently owns 35 acres in Champagne. Thanks to its privileged location in the heart of the Grand Crus of Montagne de Reims and their link to Bollinger, they also have unique access to top quality grapes.

Everything from grape reception to vinification, aging, riddling and disgorgement is done at the Ayala cellars. Brut Majeur is fermented in stainless steel, with a focus on freshness and precision. It spends 2.5 years on the lees and rests in the cellar for at least 3 months after disgorgement

Expert Review

(16.5)-Jancis Robinson, October 2012
45% Pinot Noir, 30% Chardonnay and 25% Pinot Meunier. Ayala was purchased in 2001 by the Bollinger family group. Ayala has benefited from a substantial investment programme, defining the elegant and always low-dosage style of the Ayala range. Ayala is also now benefiting from being able to source its grapes from Bollinger’s ownership of 163 ha of premier and grand cru vineyards and long-term contracts held by Bollinger with many of the Champagne region’s top growers. This wine has spent more than 2.5 years on its lees in cellars, and rested for three months after disgorgement. Winemaker Nicolas Klym.
Fine textured, lacy. Masses of acidity. Fine, long, dense.

Food Pairings

Roasted birds are a preternatural match but Pinot Noir goes with any number of dishes ranging from those incorporating wild game and foraged mushrooms to veal stews or grilled fleshy fish. For a classic cheese pairing hunt down some Epoisse...