What kind of wine is Champagne Brut 'Majeur Extra Age' - Ayala?

Champagne Brut 'Majeur Extra Age' - Ayala is the most balanced and refined expression of the historic Maison Ayala, one of the leading producers in the Montagne de Reims region, in the heart of Champagne. It is a wine born from a perfect balance between elegance and minerality, the result of the méthode champenoise, which is the secondary fermentation in the bottle that gives the wine its unique character and typical fine and persistent bubbles. This Champagne represents the purity of the Ayala style: linear, crisp, and of great aromatic finesse, designed for those who appreciate an authentic and genuine taste.

Vintage Details

The 'Majeur Extra Age' is crafted from a careful selection of excellent vintages, chosen for their ability to best express the complexity of the terroir. The grapes, sourced from vineyards located between the Montagne de Reims and the Côte des Blancs, benefit from a cool climate and chalky soils that impart tension and freshness to the palate. The harvests are distinguished by their balance, ensuring a clean aromatic profile and an elegant structure.

Winemaking and Aging

The wine is made from a classic blend of Chardonnay (40%), Pinot Noir (40%), and Pinot Meunier (20%). Alcoholic fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks at controlled temperatures to preserve the primary aromas of the grapes, while the secondary fermentation occurs using the traditional method (in the bottle). This is followed by a long aging period on the lees of about 4 years, during which the wine acquires complexity, creaminess, and pastry notes. The dosage is restrained (7 g/l), resulting in a balanced Brut with pleasant freshness and perfect gastronomic versatility.

Tasting Notes

Color

Visually, Champagne Brut 'Majeur Extra Age' - Ayala presents a brilliant straw yellow with golden reflections. The perlage is fine and continuous, a sign of long aging and impeccable craftsmanship.

Nose

The bouquet is elegant and refined: notes of ripe citrus, green apple, and white flowers emerge, followed by nuances of bread crust and toasted almond. As it opens up, the aroma becomes more complex, revealing hints of honey and chalky minerality that speak of its origin from the Reims terroir.

Taste

On the palate, it offers a lively, harmonious, and clean sip. The freshness of Chardonnay blends with the structure of Pinot Noir and the softness of Meunier. Fine and creamy bubbles accompany a long and savory finish, of great precision and persistence.

Food Pairings for Champagne Brut 'Majeur Extra Age' - Ayala

Versatile and refined, this Champagne pairs wonderfully with:

• Fish and shellfish appetizers
• Tuna or sea bass carpaccio
• Seafood or vegetable risottos
• Roast poultry or delicate white meats
• Soft, creamy cheeses

Also ideal as an aperitif glass, to accompany elegant and convivial moments.

Storage and Aging: How to Store Champagne Brut 'Majeur Extra Age' - Ayala

To fully enjoy its qualities, Champagne Brut 'Majeur Extra Age' - Ayala should be stored in a cool, dark place free from vibrations.

• Temperature: stable between 10°C and 12°C
• Light: avoid direct exposure to light sources, as this can alter the aromas
• Position: bottle laid horizontally, so that the cork remains in contact with the wine and does not dry out

If well stored, it can evolve for several years, maintaining its freshness and complexity, progressively revealing softer tones and nuances of honey and dried fruit.