De Sousa

Champagne De Sousa was founded in the late 1950s by Antoine and Zoémie De Sousa in Avize, in the heart of the Côte des Blancs. In 1986, their son Erick took over the estate, adopting a natural and pioneering approach. Biodynamic conversion began in 1999, with organic certification in 2010 and Demeter certification in 2013, establishing the Domaine among the most virtuous in Champagne.

The Domaine covers around 10 hectares, located mainly in the Grand Cru villages of Avize, Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, Cramant, and Oger, with vines averaging 45 years of age. Soil management involves light ploughing, sometimes with horses, to preserve microbial life and minerality. Winemaking relies on indigenous yeasts, natural temperature control, bâtonnage, and manual remuage, while blends are crafted to express each parcel and terroir.

Passed away in 2023 at the age of 59, Erick De Sousa leaves a legacy carried on by his children Charlotte, Julie, and Valentin, who passionately continue their father’s philosophy. The respect for nature, artisanal winemaking, moderate use of oak barrels (5% new), and focus on the identity of each cuvée remain unchanged, keeping alive the authentic spirit of De Sousa.