Champagne Ayala – Founded in 1860 – Aÿ (Marne)
Short History
Founded by Edmond de Ayala in 1860 in Ay, Ayala quickly became renowned for its dry style, launching one of the first low-dosage Champagnes in 1865. A founding member of the Syndicat des Grandes Marques in 1882, it earned a Royal Warrant from King Edward VII in 1908. The house thrived through the Roaring Twenties before being acquired by Guinness in 1936 and later purchased by the Bollinger family in 2005, which revitalized production and modernized vinification facilities.
What Makes Ayala Unique
Low-dosage Pioneer – Introduced “dry” champagne (~21 g/L) in the 1860s.
Chardonnay Focus – High Chardonnay percentage in its blends; extensive micro-vinification preserves diversity of terroir.
Unfiltered Vision – Offers both traditional and Brut Nature versions across its lineup.
Restored Heritage – Post-2005 modernization by Bollinger, with strong emphasis on balance and purity under Chef de Cave Julian Gout.
Signature Style
Ayala displays pure, refined, Chardonnay-led expressions—fresh, mineral-driven, and elegantly composed. The wines are celebrated for their weightless precision and ability to express their terroirs authentically.
Current Range & Approximate Pricing (estimates from European core markets)
- Cuvée - Price (Europe)
- Brut Majeur - €35–45
- Brut Nature - €40–50
- Rosé Majeur - €45–55
- Le Blanc de Blancs - €50–65
- Perle 2015 (vintage) - €90–120
Food Pairing Highlights
Brut Majeur – Shellfish and sushi.
Brut Nature – Oysters or fresh seafood platters.
Le Blanc de Blancs – Light poultry in creamy sauce.
Perle 2015 – Aged cheeses or scallops with citrus beurre blanc.
Visitor Information
Tours & tastings are available by reservation at the Aÿ estate, including cellar visits and tastings of flagship wines like Le Blanc de Blancs and Perle vintages. Visits are offered in French & English. The estate is wheelchair accessible; reservations required.
Top 5 Visitor Questions
- Can I taste Le Blanc de Blancs or Perle during a visit?
Yes, the Signature Tasting often includes one vintage cuvée like Le Blanc de Blancs or Perle, depending on availability. - Is the tour conducted in English?
Yes, English-speaking guides are available, and visits can be arranged in English or French upon booking. - Can I visit both the cellars and the production facility?
Yes, the standard visit includes a walkthrough of their state-of-the-art vinification facility and parts of the historic cellar. - Are private or vertical tastings available?
Yes, upon special request, vertical tastings of Brut Majeur, Rosé Majeur, and vintage cuvées can be arranged. - Is the estate wheelchair-accessible?
Partially, some cellar areas are historic and have limited accessibility—advance notice is recommended for accommodations.