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In this edition of Tips from the Tasting Room, we find out why our Spain buyer, Sarah, is getting excited about a classic Spanish sparkler, Masia Cava Brut Reserva.
What is Cava?
Cava is Spain’s most famous sparkling wine. It’s made throughout Spain, but most commonly associated with the area around Barcelona. With its citrussy freshness and fine streams of bubbles, it’s a little more serious than Prosecco – but without the price tag of Champagne.
To really get the full picture, take a look at our guide, What is Cava.
So why Masia Brut Reserva?
Cava is bang on trend right now and for good reason. With the rise in popularity of sparkling wines (especially Prosecco), Spanish winemakers realised they had a real treasure on their hands. And many producers are really upping the quality bar – to make sure Cava gets the recognition it deserves.
Hola! Cava was of the wineries that led this quality revolution. It was founded by Belgian entrepreneurs Christopher Heirwegh and Christel Weemaes (pictured below) who to moved to Barcelona over a decade ago with one simple dream: to grow, harvest and bottle the best organic Cava in the world.
What makes this bottle so special?
Our buyer for Spain, Sarah, tastes hundreds of wines each year to pick out the best for you. So, what made this bottle stand out from the crowd? Here’s the answer in her own words:
“Masia is from just outside Barcelona, made from organic vineyards. And it’s made actually, in the same way as Champagne. Cava is beautifully aromatic, full of floral notes, apples, lemons, citrus fruit. Reserva stands for extra ageing, so this has had 15 months ageing before it comes over to us to be ready to pop. And a Reserva with extra ageing gives it that lovely little lick of cream.
The winemaker is Juan Soler who’s a pioneer in Cava and really driving the category forward. So, if you don’t normally drink Cava, I would say give this a go – you won’t regret it!”
Serving Recommendations
Masia Brut Reserva is a classy fizz that’s perfect for celebrating life’s big moments. (Another Laithwaites staff member, Daisy, chose it as her wedding bubbly!)
But you don’t need to wait for a special occasion to enjoy it. Like Champagne, Cava is very versatile with food. Try it with shellfish dishes (especially oysters), pasta with creamy sauces, or white meats.
Our top tip? Try it with roast chicken with plenty of gravy and well-browned roast potatoes. The wine’s acidity will cut through the fat of the meat and the rich gravy, and its fruit will really shine.
About the author
Chris Larkin
A seasoned copywriter with over two decades experience, Chris has been part of the team since 2021. At Laithwaites HQ, you’ll find him either working on our latest catalogue or creating informative content for our website. Qualified to WSET Level 3 Wine, Chris is as geeky about wine as he is about copywriting. But when it comes to choosing a special bottle, he is a traditionalist, and loves a good Bordeaux or Mâcon Chardonnay.
