Are you planning to travel to Barcelona and wondering what the hype is all about the famous Cava drink? Well, you’ve come to the right place! In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about Cava – its history, production process, and why it’s considered a must-try beverage in Barcelona.
The History of Cava
Cava is a sparkling wine that originates from Catalonia, Spain. It was first produced in the late 1800s by Josep Raventos, who studied the Champagne-making process in France.
Raventos wanted to create a unique sparkling wine that would embody the Catalan spirit and tradition. He began experimenting with different grape varieties and production methods, which led to the birth of Cava.
How Is Cava Made?
Like Champagne, Cava is made using the traditional method (also known as Metodo Tradicional). The process involves two fermentation stages – the first in stainless steel tanks and the second in bottles.
The base wine is made from three grape varieties – Macabeo, Parellada, and Xarel·lo. These grapes are grown in specific regions of Catalonia that have ideal soil and climate conditions for their growth.
After harvesting, the grapes are pressed to extract their juice, which is then fermented into still wine. The still wine is then mixed with yeast and sugar to initiate a second fermentation stage inside bottles. The bottles are sealed with crown caps and left to age for at least nine months or more.
During this aging process, dead yeast cells settle at the bottom of the bottle (also known as lees). The lees give Cava its distinctive flavor profile by adding complexity and richness to its taste.
Types of Cava
Cava comes in different styles based on its aging process:
- Cava Reserva: This type of Cava is aged for a minimum of 15 months.
- Cava Gran Reserva: This is the highest quality Cava, aged for at least 30 months.
- Cava Brut Nature: This is a type of Cava that has no added sugar, making it very dry and crisp.
- Cava Rosado: This is a pink-colored Cava made from red grapes and has a fruity flavor profile.
Why Is Cava Popular in Barcelona?
Cava has become an integral part of Catalan culture and tradition. It’s often served during celebrations, festivals, and special occasions. Barcelona, being the capital of Catalonia, has a vibrant Cava scene with many bars and restaurants serving it.
One of the best places to experience Cava in Barcelona is at Cavas Codorniu. It’s one of the oldest and most prestigious Cava producers in Spain, offering guided tours and tastings.
In conclusion, if you’re visiting Barcelona, don’t miss out on trying this iconic sparkling wine. With its rich history and complex flavors, it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience!
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