Champagne De Sousa - Grand Cru Extra Brut Cuvée 3A

Bettane & Desseauve

About the estate:

Érick de Sousa is a highly talented winemaker who has been based at the family estate since 1986, where he cultivates ten hectares in the Côte des Blancs using biodynamic methods for over twenty years. Uncompromising and meticulous, he crafts a range of sparkling wines with pure and nuanced expressions, drawing on the terroirs of Avize, Cramant, Oger, and Le Mesnil—planted with Chardonnay—as well as plots in Aÿ and Ambonnay planted with Pinot Noir, and a small amount of Meunier. The result is a very broad range of champagnes that differ in approach but share a family resemblance in their smooth texture and aromatic originality, enhanced by beautifully crafted aging in oak. From this perspective, the 3A cuvée seems to us representative of this irresistible allure, as does the remarkable Mycorhize cuvée, not to mention the Caudalie cuvée, which over the years has become inseparable from the house and its flagship. As for vintages, the 2008 holds its own, while the 2010 surprises with its fresh balance in a year known for its suppleness. While the noses may sometimes surprise, it is on the palate that one discovers the stylistic charm of this house with an established reputation.

Robert Parker - Wine Advocate

About the estate:

RVF - La Revue du Vin de France / Guide des Meilleurs Vins de France

About wine:

The 3A vintage, crafted from a 2020 blend of equal parts Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, offers a powerful wine with well-defined structure and a full-bodied profile that is robust without being excessive.

About the estate:

The estate, now led by the next generation, brilliantly carries on the work of the late Eric de Sousa. Charlotte handles the business side, Julie oversees the vineyards and the horses, and Valentin works in the cellar. The estate comprises 14 hectares of vineyards, primarily Chardonnays located in the Grand Cru Avize, as well as Pinot Noir from the Grand Crus Aÿ and Ambonnay. Certified organic in 2010 and biodynamic in 2013, the estate also benefits from older vines. Careful management of the aging process in oak highlights magnificent wines full of energy.

James Suckling

About wine:

Great elegance, thanks to delicate aromas of tarte tatin, almost vinous strawberries, and red berries, combined with the freshness of lemon zest and a buttery depth. Some mineral notes. Medium-bodied, it shines with its creaminess, its very lemony acidity with essential oils, and its buttery finish. Made from biodynamically grown grapes certified by Demeter. Ready to drink or for aging.