Cava

Cava is Spain's best-known traditional-method sparkling wine, made with a second fermentation in the bottle. Most Cava comes from Catalonia, with classic grape varieties including Xarel-lo, Macabeo and Parellada, although other permitted varieties are also used.

At Spy, our Cava selection focuses on distinctive bottles from carefully chosen producers. Look beyond Cava simply as an inexpensive alternative to Champagne and you can find serious sparkling wines with freshness, texture and complexity, particularly from producers who place greater emphasis on vineyards, longer ageing and individual character.

  • Torello Corpinnat Brut Cava on a white background

    Torello Corpinnat Brut Reserva

    Torello Corpinnat Brut Reserva

    75cl | ABV: 12%

    £23.95
    £23.95
  • Gran Torello Brut Nature Corpinnat Cava

    Gran Torello Corpinnat Brut Nature

    Gran Torello Corpinnat Brut Nature

    70cl | ABV: 12%

    £43.95
    £43.95

Cava Buying Guide

Cava is made using the traditional method, with the second fermentation taking place in the bottle. Styles vary considerably according to grape varieties, ageing and producer, from fresh and lively sparkling wines to more complex bottles with extended time on the lees.

Which style of Cava should you choose?

For an aperitif or an easy-drinking sparkling wine, younger Cava can offer bright citrus and orchard fruit with a fresh, crisp finish. Longer-aged examples can develop more texture and flavours such as toast, nuts and pastry alongside the fruit. The producer and ageing category can therefore tell you much more than price alone.

How is Cava different from Prosecco and Champagne?

Cava and Champagne both use a second fermentation in the bottle, while most Prosecco undergoes its second fermentation in a pressurised tank. Cava also has its own permitted grape varieties and places of production, giving it a character distinct from both Champagne and Prosecco rather than simply making it a substitute for either.

Look beyond inexpensive Cava

Cava has long been associated with affordable sparkling wine, but the category is much broader than that reputation suggests. Smaller producers can put greater emphasis on vineyard origin, traditional grape varieties and extended ageing, producing distinctive wines with considerably more depth and individuality.

Cava FAQs

What is Cava?

Cava is a Spanish sparkling wine made using the traditional method, meaning the bubbles are created by a second fermentation in the bottle. Most production is associated with Catalonia, although Cava can legally be produced in several designated areas of Spain.

What grapes are used to make Cava?

Xarel-lo, Macabeo and Parellada are the classic white grapes associated with Cava. Other permitted varieties can also be used, including Chardonnay and several red grapes, so the exact blend varies between producers and wines.

Is Cava the same as Prosecco?

No. Cava is made using the traditional method, with its second fermentation taking place in the bottle. Most Prosecco is made using the tank method, where the second fermentation happens in a pressurised tank. They also use different grape varieties and come from different regions.

What food goes with Cava?

Cava's acidity and bubbles make it extremely versatile with food. It works particularly well with tapas, seafood, fried dishes, charcuterie and hard cheeses, while richer and longer-aged Cava can also work well with roast poultry and other more substantial dishes.

Explore more distinctive sparkling wine

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