A pure expression of Chardonnay, the Blanc de Blancs A/18 cuvée embodies the excellence of the Ayala House's flagship grape variety. Made from the 2018 harvest and composed exclusively of Grand Cru and Premier Cru Chardonnays, it reveals the freshness, elegance, and minerality typical of the terroirs of the Côte des Blancs and the Montagne de Reims.
The 2018 vintage
The 2018 vintage was marked by ideal weather conditions in Champagne. A warm spring without excessive humidity, followed by a sunny, dry summer, allowed the grapes to reach remarkable maturity. The Chardonnays from the Côte des Blancs and Montagne de Reims regions responded particularly well to this generous weather, offering profiles that are both expressive, aromatic, and balanced. This exceptional climate gives the A/18 cuvée crystal-clear precision, a silky texture, and remarkable length.
Production of Blanc de Blancs A/18
This 100% Chardonnay is made from a rigorous blend of the best terroirs:
- Côte des Blancs: Chouilly, Cramant, Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, Oger
- Montagne de Reims: Cuis, Bisseuil
Micro-vinification in small stainless steel vats allows the subtlety of each cru to be revealed. The cuvée is then aged for six years on lees in the House's cellars to develop complexity, freshness, and fullness. The Extra-Brut dosage (5 g/L) further accentuates the pure expression of the grape variety and vintage.
Tasting notes
Color
Bright and crystalline, with fine, lively bubbles.
Nose
Elegant and airy, it blends aromas of fresh pear, grapefruit, and jasmine with honeyed and floral notes.
Palate
The attack is clean, followed by notes of pastry, blood orange, and lemon zest. The finish offers a chalky minerality and beautiful bitterness carried by great liveliness.
Food and champagne pairings
- Scallop carpaccio
- Sea bass tartare with citrus fruits
- Fine Claire oysters
- Fillet of sole meunière
- Langoustine ravioli
- Cod in a citrus crust
- Lemon meringue pie
- Yuzu ice cream soufflé
- Fresh citrus salad with acacia honey
Serving suggestions
Ideal temperature: 10°C. Use a spherical tulip glass with a narrow opening to concentrate the aromas and enhance the wine's flavors.
Price of Ayala Blanc de Blancs A/18
The price of Blanc de Blancs A/18 in a standard bottle is 69,95 £GB. A terroir-driven cuvée, refined and luminous, ideal for lovers of great Chardonnays with mineral expression.
Customer reviews of Ayala A/18 Champagne
Connoisseurs praise the racy minerality and aromatic purity of this cuvée. The A/18 edition is unanimously recognized as a faithful expression of the Ayala style: straightforward, chiseled, and luminous. Read reviews
