This is the grand cru vineyard belonging to Ayala, a Champagne house in the area’s old capital, Aÿ. In the winemaker’s revolt of 1911 all the winery buildings were destroyed, but by the 1920s Ayala had recovered and produced more than a million bottles per year. After World War II many of its vineyards were sold, but it was bought by Bollinger in 2005, with the intention of restoring its former glory.
The 40-year-old Chardonnay vines thrive in the belemnite chalk soil, which allows the roots to dig deeply for nutrients and retain moisture. This prized limestone terroir contributes characteristic high acidity, freshness and intensity to the Chardonnay grapes, as well as a creamy delicacy to the wines.
