Discover the Cava wine sub-region of Spain

about this subregion

Welcome to Cava, the birthplace of Spain´s most iconic sparkling wine! This region, nestled in Catalonia, has a Mediterranean climate with a continental twist, which means hot, dry summers perfect for working on your tan and mild winters that are great for sipping on some bubbly.

The region gets a decent amount of rain, usually between 400-600 mm per year, but the Mediterranean Sea is like a built-in air conditioner, helping to keep things nice and temperate for the grapes. The vineyards here are spread out across different elevations, ranging from 200 to 800 meters.

The soils in the Cava subregions, on the other hand, are a mix between of calcareous clay, limestone, and alluvial deposits.

The main grape varieties that call this subregion home are Xarel·lo, Macabeo, and Parellada. These grapes are like the Three Musketeers of the Cava world, each bringing their own unique skills to the table and thriving in the region's terroir. When you put it all together - the perfect climate, the diverse soils, and these traditional grape varieties - you get a subregion that's like no other when it comes to making incredible sparkling wines.

Discover Terroir

Cava is a supra-autonomous Protected Designation of Origin of Spain, produced in various regions. The Cava wines from the DO Penedés in Catalonia stand out as exceptional examples. The wines of this DO are sparkling, and are obtained by carrying out a second fermentation of a base wine, in a process similar to that used for Champagne wine. The wine must then remain at least 9 months in contact with its lees.

The Cava wine region Spain, has a Mediterranean climate with continental influences. It experiences hot, dry summers and mild winters, with annual rainfall varying between 400-600 mm. The region benefits from the Mediterranean Sea's proximity, which helps moderate temperatures, and the vineyards are often situated at elevations between 200-800 meters. These climate conditions are favorable for growing grape varieties like Macabeo, Xarel·lo, and Parellada, used in the production of the world-renowned sparkling wine, Cava.

The Cava wine region's soils vary, but the dominant types include calcareous clay, limestone, and alluvial deposits. These diverse soil compositions contribute to the character and complexity of Cava wines. The calcareous clay offers good water retention, promoting slow grape maturation, while limestone adds minerality. The alluvial deposits, found in certain areas, contribute to vine vigor and drainage. The harmonious combination of these soils nurtures the grapes, resulting in sparkling wines with finesse, balance, and unique terroir-driven flavors.

Discover

Most Common Grapes from the Cava Subregion

Let's dive into the Cava subregion, nestled in the heart of Catalonia in northeastern Spain. This place is all about those sparkling wines that make your taste buds dance, and it's got three main grape varieties that are indigenous to the area: Xarel·lo, Macabeo, and Parellada.

Xarel·lo: This grape is like the bodyguard of Cava - it's got thick skins and a killer acid structure that give the wine some serious backbone and aging potential. Xarel·lo is all about that Mediterranean lifestyle, soaking up the warm summers and mild winters of Catalonia. It's happiest in well-drained soils, which you can find plenty of in the Penedès region. These soils are a mix of limestone and clay-loam, giving the grape all the good stuff it needs to thrive while making sure it doesn't get too thirsty. Xarel·lo is one tough cookie, but it can get a bit frosty sometimes, so the vineyard crew has to keep a close eye on it to make sure it stays happy and healthy.
Macabeo: Also known as Viura in other parts of Spain, Macabeo is another key player in the Cava game. This grape is pretty chill and can handle a variety of soils, from limestone to clay, and it loves basking in the Mediterranean sun while getting just the right amount of rain to keep its sugars and acids in check. Macabeo has a natural superpower against oxidation, which makes it perfect for blending in Cava and helping the wine stay fresh and tasty for a long time. It's a real team player and can adapt to different vineyard elevations, but it really shines in the lower, warmer areas where it can get fully ripe and show off its best self.‍
Parellada: Parellada is like the mellow one of the Cava grape trio - it's got the least amount of acidity, but that's what makes it so special. This grape likes to hang out in the higher, cooler parts of the vineyard, where it can take its sweet time ripening and developing that delicate acidity that gives Cava its signature freshness. Parellada feels right at home in the poor, well-draining soils that you often find in the upper reaches of the Penedès region. These high-altitude vineyards are like a spa retreat for Parellada, helping it stay chill and contribute to the overall balance of the Cava blend. While it might not be as famous as its buddies Xarel·lo and Macabeo, Parellada is the unsung hero that brings a touch of elegance and finesse to the party.

Cava wines are Spain's sparkling gems, and will captivate your with their vibrant personality and enchanting bubbles. Crafted using the traditional method, like the iconic Champagne wines form the region of the same name, Cava exudes elegance and sophistication. The blending of classic grape varieties - Macabeo, Xarel-lo, and Parellada - with occasional Chardonnay and others, imparts complexity and a fruit-driven profile. These sparklers are carefully aged in cellars, developing a bountiful array of flavors.

Cava wines charm the senses with aromas of crisp apples, citrus blossoms, and hints of toasted bread. On the palate, they dance gracefully, balancing zesty acidity and a delicate mousse. With each sip, Cava unveils a symphony of flavors - green pear, white peach, and a touch of almond - leading to a refreshingly dry finish.

Cava's diverse styles cater to various tastes. From the youthful and fruit-forward Cava, perfect for celebrations, to the more refined Gran Reserva, aged for years, offering richness and complexity.

Versatility is Cava's forte. Whether a delightful aperitif, a delightful pairing with tapas, or accompanying a lavish feast, Cava complements any occasion. Its approachable price also makes it an attractive choice for everyday indulgence.

Brimming with character, charm, and effervescence, Cava wines embody the spirit of celebration and the allure of Spanish culture. As the bubbles dance in the glass, Cava captures the essence of joy, making every moment memorable and worth toasting to.

Cava

Associations

Discover Terroir

Discover

Most Common Grapes from the Cava Subregion