AYALA Brut 'Majeur' NV Bottle

Description

IN BRIEF
Brut Majeur is an exceptional non-vintage champagne produced by a prestigious house, showcasing a remarkable blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier grapes. With a light gold colour and abundant fine bubbles, it presents an expressive nose, featuring delicate notes of citrus, flowers, and white fruits. The palate is well-balanced, precise, and fruity, culminating in a long, satisfying finish, making it perfect for aperitifs or pairings with white fish, shellfish, poultry, or cheese platters. The wine has garnered excellent ratings, including 92 points from James Suckling for its depth and complexity, 91 points from Wine Enthusiast for its balance and integration of older wines, and 89 points from Vinous, highlighting its flavorful layers and persistent character.

ABOUT THIS WINE
Ayala Brut 'Majeur' is a finely crafted Champagne that embodies elegance and a true expression of the classic Champagne style. Renowned for its commitment to quality, the Ayala house has been producing exceptional wines since its founding in 1860.

This cuvée is a blend of predominantly Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier grapes, sourced from some of the finest vineyards in the Champagne region. The result is a sparkling wine with a beautiful pale golden hue and a fine, persistent bubble that enchants the eye.

On the nose, Ayala Brut 'Majeur' offers an enticing bouquet of fresh citrus fruits, green apples, and pears, alongside delicate floral notes and hints of brioche from the aging process. The aromas promise a refreshing and vibrant palate experience.

On the palate, this Champagne is crisp and lively, showcasing a harmonious balance of bright acidity and rich fruit flavours. Flavours of lemon, white peach, and a touch of mineral complexity unfold, leading to a clean and elegant finish that lingers beautifully.

Ayala Brut 'Majeur' is incredibly versatile, making it perfect for various occasions. It serves beautifully as an aperitif or pairs wonderfully with a wide range of dishes, including seafood, grilled chicken, and soft cheeses.

Overall, Ayala Brut 'Majeur' is a superb example of the artistry of Champagne production, highlighting the dedication of the Ayala house to crafting wines of exceptional quality and finesse. Whether enjoyed during special celebrations or savoured for a delightful evening, this Champagne promises to deliver a refreshing and memorable experience.

JAMES SUCKLING 92 points
Ayala is looking very good and offers some genuine depth and complexity for this entry-level pinot-dominant blend, driving impressive concentration into a savory and defined style. On the palate, this offers up dried-red-cherry fruits, gentle spices and smooth, zesty bite. It finishes with precise, nutty tannin.

WINE ENTHUSIAST 91 points
A beautifully balanced non-vintage, in the lighter style that is Ayala's hallmark. It is fresh, but shows a good amount of blend with older wines to give weight and complexity. The green fruit flavors are well balanced with secondary aromas of almonds, green berries and lively, but not dominant acidity. — Roger Voss

VINOUS 89 points
The NV Brut Majeur is a tasty non-vintage offering. Pear, lemon confit, kirsch, spice and exotic floral notes fill out the layers nicely. Medium in body and persistent, the Brut Majeur has a lot to offer. This is the best version of Brut Majeur I have tasted in a very long time. The blend is 55% Chardonnay, 30% Pinot Noir and 15% Meunier.

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ABOUT THIS PRODUCER
Champagne Ayala is a distinguished winery located in the heart of the prestigious Champagne region of France, specifically in the village of Aÿ, known for its exceptional terroir and dedication to quality. Founded in 1860 by the visionary Edmond Ayala, this house has built a solid reputation for crafting elegant and refined champagnes that embody the essence of the region.

The vineyards of Champagne Ayala span several premier cru and grand cru sites, with a strong emphasis on sustainable viticulture and responsible farming practices. The estate primarily cultivates Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier, which are essential for producing their celebrated cuvées. The cool climate and chalky soils of the Champagne region contribute to the distinctiveness of Ayala's wines, offering a balance of freshness and complexity.

Ayala is particularly renowned for its signature style, characterized by a focus on purity and expression. The house is known for producing a range of champagnes, including its flagship Brut Majeur, which is celebrated for its bright acidity, fine bubbles, and layered aromas of citrus, green apple, and subtle toast. The meticulous attention to detail in the winemaking process, combined with a commitment to aging its wines longer than the minimum required by law, results in champagnes that are not only approachable but also complex and age-worthy.

The philosophy at Champagne Ayala emphasizes minimal intervention, allowing the natural qualities of the grapes to shine through. This approach, combined with the traditional méthode champenoise, ensures that each bottle reflects the identity of its terroir and the artistry of its winemakers.

As Ayala continues to thrive in the competitive world of champagne, it remains dedicated to its heritage and the pursuit of excellence. Each bottle captures a story of tradition, craftsmanship, and a passion for quality, inviting wine lovers to experience the elegance and sophistication that define Champagne Ayala. Whether enjoyed as an aperitif or paired with gourmet cuisine, Ayala's champagnes offer a delightful celebration of the artistry of fine winemaking.