Champagne D'Sousa 3A Grand Cru NV

Winery Background & History

De Sousa, established in the heart of the Côte des Blancs, is renowned for its commitment to sustainable viticulture and biodynamic practices. The house has a rich history of producing some of the finest Champagnes, with a strong focus on showcasing terroir. The Cuvée 3A Grand Cru NV is a reflection of this dedication, blending the finest grapes from three prestigious Grand Cru villages: Avize, Aÿ, and Ambonnay.

Producer & Wine Maker

This Champagne is crafted under the leadership of Erick De Sousa, the current winemaker and owner, who emphasizes minimal intervention in the vineyard and cellar to allow the natural characteristics of the fruit to shine. De Sousa’s approach prioritizes biodynamic practices, resulting in wines that are vibrant and expressive of their terroir.

Vineyard

The grapes for Cuvée 3A Grand Cru NV come exclusively from the three Grand Cru villages of Avize (Chardonnay), Aÿ, and Ambonnay (Pinot Noir). These regions are celebrated for producing high-quality grapes, with Avize known for its chalky soils that lend minerality and finesse, and Aÿ and Ambonnay for their powerful, structured Pinot Noirs.

The Wine

De Sousa Cuvée 3A Grand Cru is a blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from these three villages. It is produced in a Brut or Extra Brut style, depending on the dosage, with low sugar levels to highlight the freshness and purity of the wine. The wine has a structured, textured profile with excellent depth.

Vintage

As a non-vintage (NV) Champagne, Cuvée 3A blends different vintages to maintain a consistent house style, achieving a balance of freshness from younger wines and complexity from reserve wines aged in the cellar.

ABV %

The alcohol by volume (ABV) for De Sousa Cuvée 3A Grand Cru NV is approximately 12.5%  .

Vinification and Aging Method

This Champagne is produced using the méthode champenoise, with secondary fermentation occurring in the bottle. The wine is aged on its lees for an extended period to develop richness and texture. The dosage is low, often in the Extra Brut style (around 3-6 g/L), which enhances its minerality and crispness  .

Grapes Varietals

• 50% Chardonnay (Avize)

• 50% Pinot Noir (Aÿ and Ambonnay)

This blend combines the finesse of Chardonnay with the power and fruitiness of Pinot Noir, resulting in a well-balanced and structured wine.

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: Pale gold with fine, persistent bubbles.

• Nose: Aromas of ripe apples, peaches, and green plums, along with a delicate note of cranberry and toasted brioche.

• Palate: The wine is dense and full, with flavors of ripe apples, peaches, and hints of minerality. The texture is rich, but the wine finishes dry and precise, with a long, elegant finish  .

Food and Wine Pairing

Cuvée 3A pairs well with:

• Oysters and other shellfish

• Sushi and sashimi

• Poultry with cream-based sauces

• Goat cheese

Service Methods

Serve at 8-10°C (46-50°F) in a wide flute or white wine glass to enhance its complex aromas.

Storage and Ageing Potential

This non-vintage Champagne is designed for immediate enjoyment but can be stored for up to 5-7 years. With time, it will develop more complex notes of brioche, nuts, and honey.

Scores

• Wine Enthusiast: 93 points  .

• James Suckling: 94 points .

Summary

De Sousa Cuvée 3A Grand Cru NV is an elegant, structured Champagne that showcases the finesse of Chardonnay from Avize and the power of Pinot Noir from Aÿ and Ambonnay. With its complex aromatics, rich texture, and long, mineral-driven finish, it is perfect for both immediate drinking and short-term aging.