N°14 is the third opus from the “Collection AYALA”. This ephemeral cuvée is made from the 5 emblematic Grands Crus that form the backbone of the House’s blends. The œnological team wanted to work the crus in equal proportions, exclusively from the 2014 vintage, and for the first time in a rosé version. A great rosé champagne, the pure expression of the Champagne AYALA style, produced in very limited quantities, 7,235 bottles in total.

TASTING NOTES

On the eye: Bright color with delicate rose-gold tints revealing a fine bead and subtle effervescence.

On the nose: Fresh and acidulous. Notes of morello cherries, red currants and cherries. Frangipani flowers mingle with the delicacy of mango, lychee and passion fruit.

On the palate: Lively and generous attack, revealing the unctuousness of vanilla and the freshness of zesty lime. Chalky and mineral mid-palate wrapped up in warm notes of cocoa and blood orange. A finish of candied ginger accompanies a sweet bitterness of grapefruit. A firm hold on the palate with length and amplitude.

PAIRING

N°14 will add vibrancy and contrast to fine and spicy dishes such as a carpaccio of sea bass with mango and pink peppercorns. Between richness and delicacy, it will pair equally well with a shoulder of lamb with sweet spices or a beef tartar and shellfish reduction. For a sweet note, a pavlova with Mara des Bois will subtly balance the lovely bitters of this vintage.

TECHNICAL INFORMATION

Varietals: 60% Chardonnay, 40% Pinot Noir

Appellation: Aÿ, Chouilly, Cramant, Le Mesnil-sur-Oger and Verzy

Aging: 6 years on lees