Location and municipality
Aÿ is a historic production centre of Champagne between the Marne–Rhine Canal and the historic vineyard slopes. The present-day municipality of Aÿ-Champagne was formed on 1 January 2016 through the merger of Aÿ, Bisseuil and Mareuil-sur-Aÿ.
Vineyards and terroir
About 40 per cent of the district of Aÿ is covered by vineyards. The slopes belong to the historic vineyard landscape of Champagne; their hillside positions improve sunshine and drainage. The mostly chalky subsoil shapes the surrounding area and is also suitable for the construction of underground wine cellars.
Climate and viticulture
Aÿ lies in the dual oceanic-continental climate of Champagne. Moderate rainfall, summer sunshine, and frost risks in winter and spring influence viticulture and help to preserve the acidity of the grapes until ripeness. The most important grape varieties are Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Meunier.
History and Champagne
The slopes of Aÿ have been exporting wine for at least four centuries and are part of UNESCO World Heritage status for the historic development of Champagne production. In 1911, Aÿ was the centre of the winegrowers’ revolt in Champagne; several houses on Boulevard du Nord were set on fire during the unrest. Wines from Aÿ may, under the applicable conditions, bear the supplementary designation “Grand Cru”. Production includes, among other things, hand-harvesting, gentle pressing, assemblage, a second fermentation in the bottle and longer ageing.
