Spanish sparkling wine

Dive into the bubbly universe of Spanish sparkling wine, where Cava steals the show. Cava is the third most-produced sparkling wine in the world, after Italian Prosecco and French Champagne. Ranging in style from extra dry to sweet, Cava offers a delicious selection of flavours, including orchard fruits, stone fruits, citrus, nuts and toast. Creamy and budget-friendly, Cava is a must-have in every wine lover’s fridge.

However, while Cava is the most recognised, there’s a wide variety of Spanish sparkling wines to explore.

Let’s pop the cork and dive in!

The globally famous Spanish sparkling wine, Cava, stands proudly alongside Rioja as one of Spain’s top wine exports. Hailing primarily from Catalonia, Cava is prized for its outstanding quality and affordability.

Most Cava comes from the Penedès area of Catalonia, where it has been produced since the mid-1850s. However, the “designated origin” (DO) of Cava is not regionally based. Cava can be made anywhere in Spain as long as it follows all of the rules for production.

This Spanish sparkler is made in the same way as Champagne, achieving those delightful bubbles through a second bottle fermentation. Instead of the Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes used in Champagne, Cava dances to its own rhythm with a harmonious blend of local Spanish grapes – Macabeo, Parellada and Xarel·lo.

The name Cava, which means “cellar” or “cave” in Catalan, was adopted in the 1970s to distinguish this Spanish sparkling wine from French Champagne. This sparkling white wine is produced in various styles, from super dry (brut nature) to sweet (dulce), with brut being the most common. It is made as a rosé, too.

Cava is known for its delicate bubbles and a mix of zesty and creamy flavours. Expect flavours of apple, pear, flowers, almonds and hints of citrus. It’s a light and refreshing sparkling wine with a nice balance of acidity.

The icing on the cake? It’s absolutely easy on the pocket. So, if you’re looking for bubbly to light up your celebration without denting your wallet, Cava is a delightfully elegant contender.

Although Cava is the most famous and widely produced, it’s not the only Spanish sparkling wine.

There are several types of sparkling wines from various regions across Spain, including:

• Corpinnat – A sparkling wine from Catalonia, similar to Cava, but made under stricter regulations, including organic farming, hand-harvesting and the use of indigenous grape varieties.
• Clàssic Penedès – This is another sparkling wine from the Catalonia region, specifically the Penedès DO. These wines are made organically using the traditional method. Expect flavours of green apple, peach, citrus, brioche, biscuit and nuts or dried fruits after ageing.
• Sparkling Rosado – This rosé style uses methods similar to white sparkling wine but with some skin contact of red grapes to impart a beautiful pink hue. These wines often have fresh, fruity flavours of strawberry, cherry and citrus, making them perfect for a casual weekend brunch and special occasions.
• Moscatel – Made from Muscat grapes, these wines are best known for their light bubbles, natural sweetness and aromatic, floral qualities. This sparkling wine often exhibits flavours of peach, orange blossom and honey – excellent for enjoying as an aperitif or with dessert.

Spanish sparkling wine, most notably Cava, is made using a variety of local and international grape varieties. Each grape variety brings specific qualities to the blend, contributing to Spanish sparkling wine’s character and complexity.

Here are some of the key ones to look out for:

• Macabeo (Viura) – This is the primary grape in Cava. It brings freshness and acidity to the wines, with green apple and pear flavours.
• Parellada – This grape contributes delicacy and fresh, floral aromas to Cava.
• Xarel·lo – This grape adds body and richness to the Cava blend, with citrus flavours.
• Chardonnay – This non-native grape is used in some Cavas to add body and complexity.
• Pinot Noir – Mostly used for rosé Cavas, Pinot Noir contributes red fruit flavours and structure.
• Garnacha (Grenache) – Another grape used in rosé Cava blends, lending sweet strawberry and cherry flavours.
• Monastrell (Mourvedre) – This is often blended in rosé Cava to add a deep colour and robust flavour.
• Trepat – A local Catalan variety, Trepat is used almost exclusively for rosé Cava wines.

Spanish sparkling wine, such as Cava, pairs well with various foods and dishes.

It’s a classic accompaniment to tapas, complementing green olives, cheeses, cured meats and traditional tapas dishes such as gambas al ajillo and tortilla. Seafood is also a classic pairing, from freshly fried calamari to delicate sushi to seafood-studded paella, the wine’s acidity cutting through fish’s natural oiliness and complementing its robust flavours.

Don’t be afraid of pairing Cava with spicy food. Cava’s bubbles provide an excellent balance and help cleanse your palate.

For a sweet finish to your meal, opt for a demi-sec or dulce style of Cava paired with fruit-based desserts.

A glass of Spanish sparkling rosato, with its delicate bubbles and juicy red fruit flavours, is an excellent companion to classic tapa dishes. Think patatas bravas and albondigas. Spicy poultry and pork dishes are also a good match.

With its aromatic, naturally sweet profile and notes of peach, orange blossom and honey, Spanish Moscatel sparkling wine complements a variety of dishes. A glass of this sparkler is equally at home with blue cheese, paté, and spicy Asian dishes as it is with nutty, honeyed desserts.

Serving Spanish sparkling wine is easy. First, ensure it’s well chilled. Aim for a temperature between 6-8°C. You don’t want it too cold or warm as it could affect the taste and bubbles. Chill it in the fridge for a couple of hours or in an ice bucket if you need it quickly.

When it comes to glassware, a flute glass is your best bet. It keeps the bubbles bubbly and focuses the aromas. But if you’ve got an aged Cava, a standard white wine glass is better to enjoy its complexity.

Want to learn more about serving temperatures? Read our wine temperature serving guide.

Once opened, Spanish sparkling wines like Cava can last between one to three days, but they need to be correctly resealed and stored. After a few days, you might notice that the wine has lost its sparkle and the aroma has faded.

To keep it as fresh as possible, re-cork it tightly and store it in a cool, dry place, preferably in the fridge. However, for the best taste, enjoying it soon after opening is a good idea.