What kind of wine is Champagne Extra Brut 'Le Blanc de Blancs A/18' 2018 - Ayala (case)

Champagne Extra Brut 'Le Blanc de Blancs A/18' 2018 - Ayala is born in the heart of Champagne, in Aÿ, one of the most historic areas dedicated to the production of great French sparkling wines. Produced by Maison Ayala – founded in 1860 and today recognized for its elegant and crystalline style – this Champagne is made exclusively from Chardonnay grapes from the best Crus of the Côte des Blancs. Its winemaking faithfully follows the méthode champenoise, the traditional process that involves a second fermentation directly in the bottle, giving the Champagne finesse, structure, and a persistent perlage.

Vintage details

The 2018 vintage was considered one of the best in recent decades in Champagne. A harsh winter was followed by a mild spring and a warm, sunny summer, conditions that allowed for excellent grape maturation. The Chardonnay bunches expressed extraordinary aromatic concentration and a perfect balance between freshness and richness, elements that can be found in the glass.

Winemaking and aging

Champagne Extra Brut 'Le Blanc de Blancs A/18' 2018 - Ayala (case) is vinified according to the classic method, with alcoholic fermentation in steel to preserve the freshness and purity of the fruit. The second fermentation in the bottle and a period of aging on the lees for about 6 years ensure complexity and creaminess on the palate. The Extra Brut dosage (very low sugar content) enhances the transparency of the Chardonnay and the unmistakable signature of the Maison: a direct, mineral, and luminous style.

Tasting notes

Color

In the glass, it presents a brilliant straw yellow, embellished with very fine and persistent bubbles that create an elegant and lively foam.

Nose

The aroma is fine and complex. It opens with citrus notes and white flowers, accompanied by nuances of fresh almond, pastry, and light toastiness, a sign of the long aging on the lees.

Taste

On the palate, it is taut and refined: the creamy texture perfectly balances the lively acidity typical of Chardonnay. It stands out for its long and mineral persistence, which invites the next sip and makes every tasting balanced and harmonious.

What dishes to pair with Champagne Extra Brut 'Le Blanc de Blancs A/18' 2018 - Ayala (case)

This Blanc de Blancs pairs excellently with delicate and refined dishes. Ideal for enhancing:

• Raw seafood and fish tartare
• Oysters and shellfish
• White fish carpaccio or seared scallops
• Japanese cuisine, such as sushi and sashimi
• Fresh or soft cheeses

Served alone, it is perfect for an elegant toast or to accompany an important aperitif.

Storage and aging: how to store Champagne Extra Brut 'Le Blanc de Blancs A/18' 2018 - Ayala (case)

To preserve the qualities of this Champagne intact, it is essential to store it correctly.

• Temperature: between 10 and 12°C, constant and without thermal fluctuations.
• Light: avoid direct exposure to sunlight or intense light sources, which could damage its aromatic profile.
• Bottle position: horizontal, so that the cork remains in contact with the wine, ensuring sealing and minimal oxygenation.

Over time, this Champagne will evolve in elegance and complexity, maintaining its freshness and offering ever new nuances to those who know how to wait for it.