De Sousa's Réserve Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs combines mineral freshness with enticing aromas of ripe citrus fruits, brioche, buttered toast and a hint of nuts. With additional bottle ageing, the nutty and toasted notes become more pronounced, having remained subtle in the background at first. De Sousa works with old vines and low yields. These Champagnes draw their power from the core of the palate, from their density and concentration – not from overt fullness, which would clash with the crisp, mineral-driven style.
De Sousa ranks among the very best houses in Avize, right behind Jacques Selosse and Agrapart. For the Réserve Blanc de Blancs, Chardonnay grapes from the Grand Cru terroirs of Avize, Cramant, Oger and Le Mesnil are vinified in stainless steel tanks. Malolactic fermentation is permitted, giving the fruit additional reductive aromas from yeast autolysis. Delicious though it is straight after release, we still recommend cellaring it for 3 to 5 years to enjoy even more complex aromas and a creamier texture.
Following the untimely death of Éric de Sousa, his son Valentin now oversees the cellar. Daughter Julie looks after the vineyards – biodynamic viticulture is her passion, which she continues to develop further. Charlotte, the eldest of this generation, handles sales, marketing and administration.
A glance at the Alfavin cellar
A glance at the Alfavin cellar
A glance at the Alfavin Cellar