Cava is synonymous with excellence, and its high standard is achieved thanks to the authenticity guaranteed by the production process. In addition, the traditional method offers a range of different categories and types of this quality sparkling wine, depending on the aging and sugar content. Thanks to all these criteria, Cava is one of the most versatile drinks in the world.
The aging time is the factor that dictates the category: Cava de Guarda, with a minimum of 9 months; Cava de Guarda Superior, with reposo of either more than 15 months (Reserva), 30 months (Gran Reserva), or the highly prestigious Cava de Paraje Calificado, aged for more than 36 months.
CAVA DE GUARDA
The youngest of the entire Cava range, Cava de Guarda is bursting with freshness. This sparkling wine is made using the traditional method, from a base wine, and is aged in the bottle for a minimum of 9 months.
Since the main criterion of Cava is its aging time in the bottle, following the traditional method, the concept of “Guarda” refers to the capacity of a wine with the appropriate characteristics for aging correctly.
So if you are looking for a Cava that is fresh, fruity and full of vitality, a Cava de Guarda is the ideal option.
CAVA DE GUARDA SUPERIOR
Thanks to this new category, premium Cavas can be more easily identified: in other words, Cavas that have been aged in the bottle for a longer period. The minimum aging time for Cava de Guarda Superior is 18 months; additionally, the grapes must come from specific vineyards, and must be organically grown. According to such a definition, in this category there are the well-known:
- Cava Reserva.
- Cava Gran Reserva.
- Cava de Paraje Calificado.
Cava reserva
A symbol of tradition and an example of fine balance, Cava Reserva is stored in a quiet bodega with little light, for a minimum of 18 months. This aging adds depth, aroma and complexity to the product. With abundant bubbles and a pleasant freshness, this sparkling wine is the ideal partner for any menu. The Regulatory board had approved in 2020 to elevate the minimum ageing to 18 months for Cava Reserva.
Cava Gran reserva
This Cava is the ultimate in complexity. With great aromatic intensity, Cava Gran Reserva stands out for having its own personality and complex aroma, thanks to more than 30 months aging in the bottle.
An elegant and very gastronomic wine.
Cava de Paraje Calificado
As the name paraje calificado indicates (it means qualified location), this Cava is a unique product that comes from a specially selected place. Cava de Paraje Calificado is produced from vines in a small area which is distinguished from others by its specific characteristics (location and terroir). A superior Cava, this is synonymous with exceptional quality; a product with its own delicate, very individual personality.
Aging for more than 36 months is not the only requisite for a Cava de Paraje Calificado. Currently (as of 2021) just ten Cavas have achieved this recognition.
Requisites to gain this accreditation:
- Vines must be at least 10 years old
- Grapes must be harvested by hand
- Maximum yield of 8,000 kg/hectare
- Wine must be produced and bottled on site
- Maximum output limited to 48 hectolitres/hectare
- Only single vintage Cava
- Complete traceability from the vineyard to the market
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