Champagne v. Cava

There are (at least) two truths when it comes to sparkling wine.

1) Not all sparkling wine is created equal.

2) Not all sparkling wine should be compared to champagne.

It is true that Champagne is the behemoth of the sparkling wine category. It’s exclusive. It’s collectible. (If you ever get your hands a pre-1999 vintage Krug Brut or an ancient Dom, you should probably just display it on your mantel with all the photos of your kids and grandkids.) And, primarily in the hands of companies like LVMH, champagne has been marketed correctly as the epitome of luxury and celebration.

Not everyone likes Champagne, however. It’s too dry or it’s too sour or it’s too tinny or it’s too intimidating & expensive.

At what amounts to be more or less the opposite end of the spectrum, there’s Prosecco, fruitier, less dry and, on average, significantly cheaper because, while Prosecco has it’s merits, it’s also a poor man’s Champagne. It can be bought for a handful of euro at the tabacchi next to the Museum of Pain and Death in Florence, and the quality isn’t much better than cheap American supermarket “sparkling wine”.

Also on the spectrum, however, is Cava. A white or pink sparkling wine produced primarily in Catalonia, Spain, Cava benefits from the warmer climate, toning down the acidity of the grape and preventing the natural sugars from souring.

Some other facts about Champagne and Cava:

Champagne -
Region: Champagne, France
Grapes: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier
Number of fermentations: 2
Best minimum maturation: 3 years
Fermentation Seal: Metal cap, like a beer bottle
Ideal storage/drinking temp: 55F/45F
Typical tasting notes: Fresh, lemon, vanilla, bleach, citrus, cream, melon

See Snooth’s current Champagne recommendations

Cava -
Region: Spain, primarily Catalonia
Grapes: Macabeo, Zarello, Parellada (all white)
Number of fermentations: 2
Best minimum maturation: 2 years
Fermentation Seal: Cork
Ideal drinking temp: 47F
Typical tasting notes: Apples, lime, spicy, peaches, toast, rosemary, almonds

See Snooth’s current Cava recommendations

Whether you like Champagne or not, it’s worth giving Cava a try. Regardless of which one you prefer, however, don’t forget to pour your glass like you’re pouring a beer.

[Inspired by the wine column in the most recent edition of FT Weekend]