Ayala
Represented by Julien Gout
Attending:
New York City
Ayala is one of the most exciting stories in Champagne today, and the definition of a boutique Champagne producer. This historic house has been rivatilized by a small, young and dynamic team that handles every step of production, from grape reception to labeling, in their jewel of a facility. Ayala crafts Chardonnay-focused wines that deliver immense precision, elegance and pleasure.
The House has been long-known as the “sleeping beauty of Champagne” because of its prominence in the late 19th and first half of the 20th century, and its beautifully preserved Art Deco cellars dating to 1912. Ayala was one of the 18 founding members of the “Grandes Marques de Champagne” syndicate in 1882 and went through a golden age in the 1920s and 1930s, rising to prominence as one of the most exported Maisons in Champagne — the drink of choice in bohemian Paris and London. Ayala’s re-ascent after a long quiet period began when it was acquired by the Bollinger family in 2005. Today, it is important to note that both estates are run independently, with equally independent philosophies.
Last but not least, Ayala is led by the immensely talented Cellarmaster Julian Gout. This young gentleman was born and raised in Champagne, and comes from a family of winegrowers. He joined Ayala in 2018 as deputy cellar master, in charge of oenology and vineyards. He is environmentally conscious and continues Ayala’s ambition to grow grapes organically. He will ensure the continuity of Ayala’s style: Purity!
