Champagne Ayala La Perle 2013 (Prestige Cuvée), masterfully crafted by Chef de Cave Julian Gout at Maison Ayala in Aÿ, Champagne. A rare release from an exceptional vintage, this prestige cuvée blends 80% Chardonnay with 20% Pinot Noir, exclusively from Grand Crus in the Côte des Blancs and Montagne de Reims. Aged for at least eight years on lees under cork, with hand riddling and disgorgement, it pours a luminous gold with fine bubbles. Aromas of white peach, orange citrus, hazelnut and delicate spice give way to a palate of citrus bitterness, saline minerality, elegant balance and a long, refined finish. Decanter scored it 94, Wine Anorak 95. A sublime, precise Champagne of rarity and finesse.