# Brut Majeur (NV)

- **Producer:** Ayala
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** sparkling
- **Grapes:** Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier
- **Region:** Champagne, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.0%
- **Average price:** €35
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 8–12 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** grapefruit, pear, apple, lemon, biscuit, brioche, bread, pastry, almond, hazelnut, honey

## About this wine

Ayala Brut Majeur is a non-vintage Brut Champagne from the Champagne region of France, produced by the historic house of Ayala. The wine is a blend primarily featuring Chardonnay, complemented by Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. Ayala, founded in 1860 and now part of the Bollinger group, is known for its focus on elegance and freshness, often highlighting Chardonnay as its emblematic grape. The Brut Majeur cuvée is crafted from a diverse selection of over 70 crus sourced from six distinct Grand Terroirs within Champagne, aiming to express the purity and finesse of the region's terroirs.

## Interesting facts

- Blended from over 70 different crus.
- Emphasizes Chardonnay, often making up over 55% of the blend.
- Aged for at least three years on lees, double the appellation requirement.

## Food pairing

The wine's crisp acidity and fine bubbles cut through richer elements like butter and cream, while its subtle fruit notes complement seafood and poultry. The dryness of the Brut style makes it versatile, avoiding clashes with delicate flavors.

## Wine making process

The production of Ayala Brut Majeur involves micro-vinification, where each cru, grape variety, and reserve wine is fermented separately in small stainless-steel vats. This method is employed to preserve the distinct aromatic characteristics and terroir expression of each component. Following fermentation, the wine is aged on its lees for a minimum of three years, a process that contributes to its complexity and texture. The final Champagne is a blend of these carefully managed individual lots, aiming for balance and finesse.