Cuveé 3A (Avize Aÿ Ambonnay) Grand Cru Extra Brut

Wine Description for Cuvée 3A (Avize Aÿ Ambonnay) Grand Cru Extra Brut by De Sousa

Character

The Cuvée 3A embodies the essence of three legendary Grand Cru villages of Champagne: Avize, Aÿ and Ambonnay. De Sousa composes here a fascinating geography lesson in bottle form – an Extra Brut with minimal dosage that expresses the different terroirs unadorned. The house’s philosophy of working biodynamically and prioritising purity manifests itself in a Champagne of impressive precision and depth.

Terroir & Origin

The three eponymous villages represent the diversity of Champagne in perfection: Avize on the Côte des Blancs stands for mineralic Chardonnay elegance over chalk soils, Aÿ in the Vallée de la Marne brings powerful, spicy Pinot Noir structure, whilst Ambonnay on the Montagne de Reims is renowned for concentrated, profound Pinot Noir aromas. This geological and climatic trinity – chalk, limestone and different exposures – creates extraordinary complexity.

Grape Variety & Vinification

The blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir unites finesse with substance. De Sousa, renowned for its biodynamic approach and the avoidance of malolactic fermentation in many cuvées, allows the wines their natural acidity structure and ageing potential. The Extra Brut dosage with only minimal residual sugar (under 6 g/l) underscores the philosophy of authenticity – nothing should mask the origin. The result is a Champagne of taut elegance and impressive length, which combines freshness with maturity.

Food Pairing Suggestions

The reduced dosage and structure make this Champagne the ideal food companion. Excellent with raw fish, oysters, scallops or sushi. The Pinot Noir component also carries richer dishes such as pan-fried turbot, calf’s sweetbreads or aged Comté. A Champagne that shines at table and complements rather than dominates the cuisine.