Category: Wine Guides

The History of Cava

Made in the same traditional method as Champagne, Cava delivers all the elegance of fine sparkling wine, but with a distinctly Mediterranean character - and incredible value. Crafted mainly in the sun-soaked region of Catalonia, Cava combines centuries-old technique with local Spanish grapes to create something truly special.

Whether you're a longtime fan or just discovering its charm, there’s no better time to explore Cava’s history - and our top bottles!

The History of Cava

Cava was first produced in the 1870s, when winemakers in the Penedès region of Catalonia began experimenting with the traditional method used in Champagne. They used local grapes such as Macabeo, Xarel·lo, and Parellada, and the result was so good, it quite quickly became popular.

Unlike Champagne, which is tightly regulated to one French region, Cava’s roots are proudlySpanish,with its heart still very much in Catalonia, though it's now produced in several other areas across Spain, too.

The indigenous grapes of Macabeo, Xarel·lo, and Parellada are still used today, although now Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Garnacha (the Spanish name for Grenache) and Monastrell (Mourvèdre) can also be used, especially for rosé Cava.

Many people will know Cava for its freshness, often with flavours of green apple and bright citrus. But, just like in Champagne, more complex styles are also made, which spend longer aging, these are often referred to as Reserva and Gran Reserva. Reserva must be aged for a minimum of 18 months, while Gran Reserva requires a minimum of 30 months of aging.

Whether you're a longtime Cava fan or are new to this Spanish world of fizz, here are our top picks to celebrate International Cava Day!

10 wines for your Summer Parties

Vilarnau ‘Gaudi’ Organic Cava Brut Reserva, Penedès

This eye-catching bottle is inspired by Barcelona’s vibrant mosaic art, making it the ultimate centrepiece on any table. Aged for 18 months ahead of release, this Brut Reserva makes the perfect apéritif. Expect bright notes of crisp apple, ripe pear and brioche.

Vilarnau ‘Gaudi’ Organic Rosé Cava Brut Reserva, Penedès

This elegant rosé is a case in point, winning a "Gold" award and a "Best in Class Cava Rosé Brut Vintage" at the Champagne & Sparkling Wine World Championships in 2023. You’ll find it fresh and juicy with ripe red-berry flavours and delicate floral aromas. Enjoy it slightly chilled as an apéritif, or with your next al fresco meal.

Cune Cava Brut, Penedès

Founded in 1879, the CVNE winery is famed for producing some of the world’s finest Rioja. Now in their third generation of family ownership, they've added Cava to their Cune brand – and it's been received with praise and excitement. It’s elegant and creamy with notes of ripe apple and freshly toasted bread. Perfect for celebratory sipping.

Chosen by Majestic Brut Cava

This is a great-value sparkler made by a female winemaker at one of Spain’s leading producers – known for catering to local royalty and presidential visits. It’s crafted from a blend of Xarel-lo, Macabeo and Parellada grapes in the heart of Cava country in the highlands of Penedès. Thanks to an extended 15 months of ageing on lees, it’s full of character. Fine flavours of fruit and pastry give way to a well-balanced structure.

Codorníu Non Plus Ultra Brut Reserva Organic Cava, Penedés

Codorníu's history stretches all the way back to 1551 – making them the oldest winery in Spain. Today, under the expertise of Technical Director Bruno Colomer, the team combines tradition and innovation to craft exceptional fizz that's made with the planet in mind. And they're making history with this, the first organic Cava to be aged for 18 months before its release. It's fresh and aromatic with citrus and apple flavours, toasty notes and a creamy texture.

Codorníu 'Cuvée Original' Organic Brut Cava

A blend local Penedès grape varieties: Macabeo, Xarel·lo and Parellada, this is a crisp and fruity sparkling wine, has flavours of citrus, apple, almond, honey and toast plus a smooth, creamy finish.