Nothing helps celebrate the holidays like Bubbles and we are winding our way through the various types of bubblies available this month. Last week we highlighted the #1 selling style prosecco, this week we are going to celebrate my favorite sparkler for mimosas, Cava!
Cava is Spain’s contribution to the world’s great sparkling wines. Typically dry and crisp, the highest quality Cavas can stand with sparklers produced anywhere in the world, and often for a fraction of the price. While Cava is made in the same method as Champagne, the Traditional Method (Champagne Method), it is made from different grapes, Macabeo, Xarel-lo, and Parellada.
Because of a shared production method as Champagne that includes a lengthier time on the lees (dead yeast), Cava is more likely to have the toasty, biscuit flavors that many seek in Champagne. This is due to a process called autolysis and makes Cava a great, value replacement in most champagne cocktails.
Let’s get some Spanish going this week and check out some of our favorite Cavas!!!
Randy Freeland
Wine Director at Bubbles