NV De Sousa Brut Reserve
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Tasting notes
All Chardonnay, the NV Champagne Grand Cru Reserve is initially more subtle yet very pretty, with less emphasis on its primary fruit, although it remains present, complemented by more powdery, chalky notes that shine through. It has powdery flowers but good concentration, and the nose is crisp and medium-bodied, with a refined mousse, clean length, and purity that gains lime citrus on the finish. Drink 2025-2035. The De Sousa family owns 10 hectares and also rent some, which they farm and have made organic. Their estate has been certified organic since 2010, and they have been Demeter certified since 2013.
Critic scores
Jancis Robinson MW
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
Based on the 2019 vintage, with some reserve wine from 2017 and 2018 (no more than 20%), the NV Champagne Grand Cru Reserve Blanc De Blancs Extra Brut is 100% Chardonnay fermented in stainless steel for a fresher style as an aperitif. Pouring a bright straw color, the aromatics open to notes of fresh pear, quince, lime, and a light floral and creamy profile. Medium-bodied and focused, it’s zippy on the palate, with notes of fresh ripe green apple, a spritely mousse, and a clean, chalky finish. Pure and tension-driven, it’s a very fresh and vibrant style to enjoy over the next 5-6 years. I would prefer to drink this in its youthful stage. 5 grams per liter dosage. Disgorged in January 2023.
A bold and ripe champagne with a wide spectrum of citrus aromas, ranging from lemon zest to candied orange. Quite some textural complexity on the mouth-filling, creamy palate, then a ton of mineral freshness comes through at the imposing finish. A cuvée of chardonnays from Avize, Oger and Cramant that was disgorged on May 15th, 2021. From biodynamically grown grapes with Demeter certification. Drink now.
Disgorged in April 2019 and based on the 2016 vintage, De Sousa's NV Brut Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Réserve is performing well, offering up aromas of crisp yellow orchard fruit, citrus oil, freshly baked bread, dried white flowers and yeast extract. Medium to full-bodied, fleshy and charming, with racy acids, fine depth at the core and a pretty pinpoint mousse, it has turned out very well.