“There’s a firm, chalky edge to this minerally Champagne, and mouthwatering flavors of candied lemon peel, green apple, crystallized honey and biscuit. This has an elegant texture and an overall sense of style.”

“Light yellow. Lively, sharply focused lemon and green apple aromas pick up deeper melon and peach qualities with air. Spicy and precise on the palate, offering juicy citrus fruit and honeysuckle flavors and a touch of candied fig. Powerful yet lively, finishing with strong punch and building mineral and floral qualities. This suave Champagne has the heft to handle rich foods and the tension to work by itself.”

“A cleverly arranged nose with saturated rose-like perfume layered into ripe expressive peaches, strawberries and wild dark cherries. The palate holds that darker cherry edge with real style and balance. Terrific.“

“Bright orange-pink. Fresh strawberry and tangerine on the lively floral nose and in the mouth. Spicy and incisive, with sappy red fruit and rose pastille flavors underscored by juicy acidity and a subtle chalky nuance. A mineral element adds bite to the finish, which hangs on with strong tenacity and repeating floral character. Six percent of the Pinot Noir component in this blend is in the form of still Pinot Noir from vineyards in the Montagne de Reims.”

“Pale gold. Nervy lime, ginger and floral scents, with suggestions of iodine and tarragon. Tightly wound, mineral-driven citrus fruit flavors put on weight with air and take a turn to deeper nectarine and pear. Unfolds slowly on the finish, hanging on with excellent tenacity and resonating mineral and floral notes.”

“Attractive gently reductive florals and chalky stony notes. This smells extremely fresh. The palate has a fresh grapefruit, lemon and white peach fruit core. Smooth, nicely ripened and well-balanced. Drink now.”

“Ayala specializes in dry Champagnes, and this is the house’s extreme example. It has just the right amount of bottle age to soften its intense acidity and develop some toastiness and fruit. It can be enjoyed now, but a few more months in bottle would make it even better.”

“A well-cut, mouthwatering version, with a fine bead and a rich hint of toasted raisin bread layered with flavors of white cherry, dried apricot and candied lemon zest.”