Caroline Latrive is one of only four women Cellar Masters in Champagne. She considers herself a major fan of Chardonnay and is particularly pleased with this charming Blanc de Blancs that she describes as the ”essence of Chardonnay.” For this wine she chose a mélange of Chardonnay grapes from Grand Cru vineyards in Cramant, Chouilly and Le Mesnil-sur-Ogier and Premier Cru vineyards in Cuis and Vertus. Six years of age on lees in the cellar add complexity and creaminess. A brilliant, pale golden color suggests exciting things to come like the fine threads of minute bubbles, then the ethereal aromas of citrus, apple blossoms and almonds. Flavors of citrus, freshly baked brioche and red apples mingle with the gentle mousse intensified by incisive acidity. It is somewhat difficult to describe individual elements of this wine because they are so intertwined and harmonious.
Ayala, Champagne (France) 2013
By Rebecca Murphy