Expand your bubbly repertoire with a wallet-friendly contender from Spain—Cava. This week, we put a Spanish sparkler to the test in our ongoing Wine Tasting Challenge.
The challenge? To taste 34 wines from 12 countries over 34 weeks and improve your wine palate. For this round, we set our sights on an 11-dollar Cava Reserva that offers surprising value for those who love high-quality, dry sparkling wines—just like Champagne.
Medium straw aromas greeted us: cooked yellow apple, lemon, almond, and a touch of yuzu. On the palate, this lean Cava delivered with crisp acidity from start to finish, offering notes of lime zest, toasted almonds, and freshly sliced apple.
Pairing it with Cuban food—think plantains or rice and beans—would be a match made in heaven. Or try it with seafood dishes like paella for an extra burst of flavor.
Like Champagne, Cava also has a unique qualification system, making it easier for wine enthusiasts to find quality bottles.
Cava’s winemaking method mirrors that of Champagne, but the grape varietals used are native to Spain: Macabeo, Xarello, and Parellada. Like Champagne, Cava also has a unique qualification system, making it easier for wine enthusiasts to find quality bottles.
For this tasting, we opted for a Reserva aged on the lees for two years—the perfect balance of refreshment and complexity. At 11 dollars a bottle, it’s an affordable addition to your wine fridge that you can enjoy anytime.
So, where do you find this Spanish delight? Wine Access offers alternatives to suit every taste. Don’t hesitate to explore and discover your own delicious surprise! Share your tasting notes below or post using #34Wines34Weeks for a chance to get featured.
If you want to keep track of your wine adventures, Wine Folly’s custom-designed wine journal is just what you need. Whether you’re a WSET II or a casual enthusiast, there’s always something new to learn and enjoy in the world of wine!
Questions & Answers
What is the featured drink in “Tasting Challenge: A Wallet-Friendly Spanish Cava”?
The article features Spanish Cava, a budget-friendly sparkling wine.
Where can one find wallet-friendly Spanish Cava tasting challenges?
You might find wallet-friendly Spanish Cava tasting challenges at local wine shops or online wine clubs.
Information sourced from industry reports and news outlets.
