Cava in New York

New York, New York – October 2024 Meet the Producers of Cava DO in New York

Cava in New York: A Sparkling Wine Experience at Corkbuzz

I recently attended a fantastic “Cava-licious” event hosted by D.O. Cava at Corkbuzz Restaurant & Wine Bar in New York City. As a Cava Educator, I’m always excited to immerse myself in the world of this unique Spanish sparkling wine. It was a great pleasure to meet some of the people behind Cava brands who are genuinely paving the way towards the premiumization of Cava.

Not Just an “Answer to Champagne”

While Cava is often compared to Champagne (they are both made using the traditional method, after all!), it truly stands on its own as a distinct and delicious style of sparkling wine.  Primarily from the Penedès region in Catalonia, Cava is typically made with indigenous grapes like Macabeo, Parellada, and Xarel·lo. The autochtonous gives it a unique flavor profile, often with bright citrus, apple, and almond notes.

A Deep Dive into Cava de Guarda Superior Reserva

This particular event focused on Cava de Guarda Superior Reserva, which includes Cava Reserva, Gran Reserva, and Cava de Paraje Calificado.  It was a fantastic opportunity to refresh my knowledge of the different Cava classifications and explore this category’s impressive range of styles. We tasted some truly exceptional Cavas, each with its own personality and expression.

Menu of the Cava de Guarda Superior Reserva and Gran Reserva Pairings

• Truffle Egg Crostini
  • Ferré I Catasús Maria Catasús Brut Nature 2022 – Cava de Guarda Superior Reserva
  • Producer: Ferré i Catasús
  • Representative: Imma Llopart, Export Manage

• Seared Hamachi, Pickled Fennel, Grapefruit Ponzu
  • Parés Baltà Rosa Cusiné 1019 – Cava de Guarda Superior Gran Reserva
  • Parés Baltà Blanca Cusiné Brut Nature 2016 – Cava de Guarda Superior Gran Reserva
  • Producer: Parés Baltà
  • Representative: Joan Cusiné, Proprietor

• Cheese Duo – High Plains Cheddar & La Tur Served With Seasonal Accompaniments
  • Vilarnau Reserva Organic 2019 – Cava de Guarda Superior Reserva
  • Vilarnau Delicat Rosé Reserva Brut – Cava de Guarda Superior Reserva
  • Producer: Vilarnau
  • Representative: Andrew Sinclair, Gonzalez Byass / Vilarnau (CEO)

Even though I didn’t learn much new information (being a Cava Educator and all!), it was a valuable experience to taste these amazing wines and chat with the passionate winemakers behind them.

A big thank you to Judith Manero from the Cava Regulatory Board for hosting such an informative and enjoyable lunch. If you’re in New York and looking to explore the world of Cava, I highly recommend checking out Corkbuzz for their great selection of Cavas. Be on the lookout for the ‘Cava de Guarda Reserva or Gran Reserva’ on the back of the label on your favorite retail store. And if you’re simply a fan of sparkling wine, be sure to give Cava a try – you might be surprised by its quality, complexity, and unique character!

Read more: The New Cava Classifications