Cava Wine Style

Cava is Spain’s best-known traditional-method sparkling wine, made with a second fermentation in bottle, like Champagne. Although it is often associated with Penedès in Catalonia, Cava is a regulated appellation that can be produced in several parts of Spain.

Cava is not simply a lower-priced version of Champagne: the classic blend of Xarel·lo, Macabeo, and Parellada gives it its own character. Serious, long-aged bottles can offer strong value. Expect citrus, apple, fennel, almond, and bread-like notes, especially with more aging.

At a glance

• Region: Primarily Penedès, Spain
• Typical style: Dry sparkling wine, often crisp and savory
• Key grapes: Xarel·lo, Macabeo, Parellada
• Good for: Aperitif, tapas, comparing sparkling styles
• Similar to: Champagne in method, with a distinct native-grape profile

Why it matters

Cava is one of the most important traditional-method sparkling wines in the world and a great entry point into sparkling wine education.