Organic/Biodynamic Wines
Online-Only Auction, 30 May - 13 June 2022
Session 1
Incl. Buyer's Premium & VAT
About this Item
The house of Champagne De Sousa is situated in the town of Avize, in the heart of the Côte de Blancs. Third generation Erick De Sousa has been at the head of this 10 hectare family domain since 1986. The vineyards are planted to all the allowed main Champagne varieties, and consist of 70% old vines. The property is organically and biodynamically farmed. Their philosophy is focused around the preservation of the soils and the quality that it produces in return.
Biodynamic Certification
Farmed and made according to biodynamic practices, and certified by Demeter or Biodyvin. Based on the knowledge that the soil, plants, animals and farmers work together in one agricultural cycle. Only a certified organic producer can be considered for Biodynamic certification.
Demeter have rules on growing and vinification is stricter than organic certification – for example, less use of copper sulphate per hectare, and the requirement for natural yeasts for fermentation.
Similar to organic farming, biodynamic farming uses no synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. Biodynamic farming works to achieve soil health through the use of compost, animal and green manures; diversified crop rotations; and incorporation of livestock. However, the two agricultural systems differ in that biodynamic farmers rely on eight specific preparations for the soil, crops and compost to enhance soil and plant quality, and to stimulate the composting process. The eight preparations, designated by their ingredients or by numbers 500 to 507, are made from cow manure; silica; the flowers of yarrow, chamomile, dandelion and valerian; oak bark; and the stinging nettle plant. A ninth prep, often referred to as 508, is made from horsetail and is used for fungal disease.
These bottles were disgorged in December 2017.
Provenance
Restaurant Mosaic
Critics Ratings
‘Based on a solera system of reserve wines, this oak-aged Champagne shows considerable maturity while keeping a sense of white and citrus fruits. The balance is just right. It's a wine that is dry while also full of intense, ripe fruit.’ - Roger Voss, Wine Enthusiast, 97/100 (Dec 2019)
‘With a dosage of 4g/l, 15% new oak, and grapes from a biodynamically farmed parcel in Avize, Cuvée des Caudalies is a succulent non-vintage Champagne. Scents of verbena , white fruits, white pepper and salty notes lead into a vinous, dense, and silky palate, the texture perfectly-balanced and powerful. It finishes very long and fresh.’ - Yohan Castaing, Decanter.com, 93/100 (Nov 2019)