For three generations, Maison De Sousa has stood out for its commitment to quality and excellence in champagne production. Founded by Manuel De Sousa, the house embodies the spirit and passion of its founder through its vineyards located in the heart of the Côte des Blancs, an exceptional terroir. The history of this Champagne house begins after World War I, when Manuel De Sousa, a Portuguese immigrant, settled in France. Driven by a true passion for viticulture, he decided to establish his own vineyards. This initial commitment has been passed down from generation to generation, with each family member contributing in their own way to the history of the house. The expertise of Maison De Sousa is based on environmentally friendly viticultural techniques and traditions. The vines, mainly planted in Chardonnay, are carefully tended. The house notably practices biodynamics, an approach that goes beyond simple organic farming by seeking to understand and respect natural cycles to achieve grapes of the highest quality. Today, Erick De Sousa, the founder’s grandson, continues this rich tradition. Under his leadership, Maison De Sousa obtained Demeter certification for its biodynamic practices. This recognition attests to the house’s commitment to producing authentic wines that respect both the environment and winemaking heritage. The creations of Maison De Sousa are characterized by exceptional complexity and finesse. Each cuvée is the result of meticulous and passionate work, where respect for tradition harmoniously combines with a certain dose of innovation. The wines are aged for a long time in the cellars to reach optimal maturity, revealing the richness and diversity of the Champagne terroir. From generation to generation, Maison De Sousa has been able to preserve the family heritage while adapting to new market demands. The result is a range of wines that combine prestige, tradition, and innovation, truly reflecting the talent and passion of this family of winemakers.
Among the treasures of Maison De Sousa, the Brut Caudalie Grand Cru 2006 cuvée stands out as an exceptional vintage. This champagne embodies the excellence of winemaking and the attention given to every step of its creation. The year 2006 was marked by favorable weather conditions, with a warm and sunny summer followed by some rain in August. This combination allowed for perfect ripeness of the grapes, especially the Chardonnay, the majority grape of the cuvée. The harvest was carried out with care, ensuring superior quality clusters. The Brut Caudalie Grand Cru 2006 was crafted using traditional methods, blending art and precision. Fermentation in oak barrels, a crucial step in the process, develops complex aromas and a silky texture. This uncommon procedure gives the champagne subtle woody notes, while respecting the purity of the fruits. The prolonged aging of ten years on fine lees in the chalk cellars of the house imparts extraordinary depth and maturity to this cuvée. This long resting period allows the mousse to refine, resulting in a delicate and persistent effervescence. Tasting this vintage reveals a myriad of flavors, balanced and refined. On the nose, the Brut Caudalie Grand Cru 2006 is characterized by aromas of candied citrus and dried fruits, such as apricot and fig, highlighted by touches of brioche and honey. On the palate, it offers a beautiful freshness and marked minerality, inherited from its unique terroir. Notes of yellow fruits and toasted hazelnuts are enhanced by a long and elegant finish, echoing the limestone terroirs from which it was born. This exceptional vintage is fully appreciated at grand occasions, where it enhances the finest dishes. Perfectly paired with seafood, white meats, or even fruit desserts, the Brut Caudalie Grand Cru 2006 demonstrates the richness and complexity of Maison De Sousa champagnes.
While Maison De Sousa excels in exceptional vintages, it also creates champagnes that blend tradition and innovation, as proven by the Brut Réserve Grand Cru cuvée. Made from Pinot Noir and Chardonnay sourced from the finest crus of the Côte des Blancs and Montagne de Reims, this cuvée showcases De Sousa’s artisanal mastery and modernity. The grapes come from vines averaging 50 years old, cultivated according to biodynamic principles, adding an ecological and qualitative dimension to the final product. The vinification of the Brut Réserve Grand Cru follows a meticulous process. After initial fermentation in thermo-regulated stainless steel vats, part of the reserve wines is aged in oak barrels to add complexity and depth. This method, reminiscent of ancestral techniques, also ensures perfect integration of woody aromas without masking the fruity freshness of the wine. The Brut Réserve Grand Cru cuvée offers a harmonious and sophisticated tasting experience. On the nose, it reveals notes of white flowers, green apples, and citrus, enhanced by touches of pastry and vanilla. On the palate, the attack is lively and fresh, evolving into a creamy texture and fine mousse. Fresh fruit flavors, pears, and lemons mingle with more complex hints of toasted bread and nuts, providing a rich and balanced tasting experience. This cuvée achieves the feat of combining respect for winemaking traditions with contemporary production techniques. The precision and innovation in winemaking pay tribute to the house’s heritage while meeting the expectations of the most demanding champagne connoisseurs. The Brut Réserve Grand Cru is suitable for all celebrations. It elegantly accompanies a refined aperitif, seafood dishes, sushi, or even soft cheeses. Its balanced profile and complexity make it a versatile choice, ideal for enhancing all festive moments. In conclusion, Maison De Sousa, through cuvées like the Brut Caudalie Grand Cru 2006 and the Brut Réserve Grand Cru, demonstrates an unwavering commitment to quality and excellence. Each champagne is an authentic expression of its terroir, family heritage, and the unique expertise that characterizes this prestigious house.
