Ayala : La Perle Brut 2015

Lightly mouthwatering and satiny on the palate, this is subtle at first. But it shows fine integration and balance, with flavors of Honeycrisp apple, white cherry, toast point and accents of candied lemon peel and pickled ginger expanding nicely through the lingering, mineral-driven finish. Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Disgorged May 2023. Drink now through 2040.

None of the famed leafy aromas often observed in the 2015 vintage but a complex palate of lemon tree, eucalyptus and jasmine with chalky minerality, citrus peel and vibrant depth. Medium-bodied, this has pinprick bubbles, amazing length and bright apples. Long, tingling acidity supported by a savory white-chocolate finish. Drink or hold.

A pale golden-yellow color; the nose is nicely ripe with finely buttery Chardonnay and dried fruit. The profile is complex without the rooty and vegetal aromas typical of the 2015 vintage. The palate is broad and generous with a pleasant, rounded texture; the bubbles are well-set, with no vintage-related markers—well executed for the vintage.