I actually just started playing Ashes of Ariandel after taking a long break. I figured with both DLC now, and with the new updates, I'd finally jump back in.
Personally, I'm glad I took a break, because I feel if I had played them when they came out, I would have just run through and not enjoyed them as much because of Souls burnout. But now, it feels like returning to something great after being away.
I am attempting the first DLC with my level 120 character on NG+. I was wondering how the leveling would work out, and as it turns out, it's a pretty good fit. Most of the foot soldiers can be killed easily, but if they gang up, they can still be trouble. Also, I fought Sir Vilhelm and thought he was a pretty good challenge, it took me a couple of lives to learn his moves, but it also might be because I'm a tad rusty from not playing for a year.
Either way, I am finding the first DLC to be pretty good, and the location feels as good as anything in the main game so far. Can't wait to finish it and make my way to the final DLC and bid a final farewell to the Souls series.
My setup is such that I went with a Hollowed Black Blade and Hollow shield for maximum scaling. It seems pretty well suited for most occasions.
Edit: corrected the weapon name because I always get Black Blade and Dark Blade mixed up, lol.