Ayala Collection N°16 Blanc de Blancs, Champagne

Pale yellow green, silver reflections, fine, lively mousse. Fine white tropical fruit, a hint of vineyard peach, mango touch, lime zest, fine blossom honey, complex, elegant, fine minerality, finely structured, yellow apple on the finish, taut, remains very well, very youthful, mineral finish, a taut food companion with certain ageing potential.

95 points Falstaff

Ayala Collection N°16 Blanc de Blancs is a rare and highly individual expression from one of Champagne's most historic houses. Founded in 1860 in Aÿ, Champagne Ayala has built its reputation on precision, purity and Chardonnay driven elegance. Since becoming part of the Bollinger family, the house has enjoyed a remarkable resurgence, with Cellar Master Julien Gout creating a series of limited Collection releases that showcase exceptional terroirs and unique interpretations of Champagne. Collection N°16 represents the creative freedom of the cellar, highlighting Chardonnay in a style that is both distinctive and deeply refined.

Crafted exclusively from Chardonnay sourced from some of Champagne's finest crus, this Blanc de Blancs is designed to emphasise the variety's natural finesse and mineral tension. Extended lees ageing and meticulous blending contribute layers of complexity while preserving freshness and precision. The result is a Champagne that combines youthful energy with impressive depth, offering a fascinating snapshot of both place and winemaking philosophy.

Pale gold in colour with a fine, persistent bead, the wine opens with aromas of lemon zest, white peach and green apple, complemented by notes of acacia blossom, brioche and crushed chalk. As it evolves in the glass, layers of toasted almond, citrus curd and subtle pastry complexity emerge. The palate is beautifully poised, delivering flavours of grapefruit, nectarine and preserved lemon wrapped around a core of chalky minerality. Fine bubbles and vibrant acidity create an effortless sense of balance, while the finish is long, saline and remarkably precise.

A magnificent partner for oysters, lobster, kingfish sashimi, scallops with beurre blanc or a delicate crab salad. It is equally compelling enjoyed on its own, allowing its detail and complexity to take centre stage. While already captivating, the structure and concentration suggest it will continue to evolve beautifully over the next decade or more.