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Wine Description
The Story
Our Blanc de Blancs is produced in small quantities in exceptional years only and fully expresses the superb calibre of great Chardonnay from the best crus of the Côte des Blancs. After 6 years of ageing in our cellars, remarkable minerality and low dosage make this an outstanding wine that can accompany a variety of flavoursome dishes including poultry and fish, or be served on its own to celebrate a special occasion.
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. The Blanc des Blancs rests in the cellar for 6 years after disgorgement, in order to develop complexity, intensity and roundness on the palate. 2005 is the first vintage vinified in the entirely renovated Ayala cellars.
Pale gold in color with a lively glint, with a very fine necklace of bubbles. Lovely maturity on the nose with charming citrus, pineapple and white flowers. A fresh, pure and intense palate, balancing structure and creaminess, and leading to a long finish. A unique Vintage offering.
Wine Information
Le Mesnil-sur-Oger is a magical name for all Chardonnay lovers.
Our vintage Blanc de Blancs is a blend of three Grand Crus from the Côte des Blancs in which Le Mesnil-sur-Oger has the largest proportion, completed with wines from Cramant and Chouilly.
Vintage 2004
A great example of how large yields do not necessarily mean poor quality in Champagne. As a reaction to the previous year's low yields, the vines produced one of the largest crops on record. The growing season proceeded without major difficulties but the bumper crop called for bud thinning. August brought about cooler weather and some rains, increasing the risk of rot. The massive crop, averaging 13,990 kg/ha, was picked from September 18th onwards. The quality was a pleasant surprise; vibrant wines with appropriate intensity, refined charm and refreshing lightness. This vintage impresses me more and more, and I feel tempted to give it the full five stars. It comes with a rare balance of freshness, lightness, yet fine aromatic intensity. Post-release, this vintage has proven to be slow to age, and elegant wines are likely to keep on ageing gracefully. Dom Pérignon and Louis Roederer Cristal both excelled.
