2017 By
50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 BY WINE PLEASURES
INDEX P. 3
Index 04
50 GREAT CAVAS FOR 2017
06
50 GREAT CAVAS THE RESULTS
08
50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 TASTING NOTES
27
WHAT THE JUDGES THOUGHT
31
TO SUM UP
50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 BY WINE PLEASURES
50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 P. 4
50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 BY WINE PLEASURES
50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 BY WINE PLEASURES
50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 P. 5
MAIN AREA Capital of Cava Sant Sadurní d’Anoia
Cava is a luxury sparkling wine that people can afford every day. The same cannot be said for much of the production of Cava’s rivals such as Champagne, Franciacorta or sparkling wines from England’s Chalky South Downs where prices can easily be three times more expensive for a bottle of Cava aged for say 30 - 50 months. Cava producers, mostly boutique ones are working hard to produce great Cava in order to get themselves positioned as a quality sparkling wine not to be laughed at. Reserva (15- 30 months ageing on the lees) and Gran Reserva (>30 months ageing on the lees) Cava are ranked as “Premium” by the Cava Regulatory Board DO Cava. A new project, Cava de Paraje Calificado (Single Estate Cava) was launched in 2016 to give Cava a top tier in its Cava classifications. Such Cavas must be aged at least 36 months and must adhere to more rigourous standards, such as lower yields and older vines. A category for this Cava will be introduced in the next edition of 50 Great Cavas. Unlike its sparkling competitors around the world, Cava has a unique selling point which is the fact that it is easy to make quality Cava without having to add sugar and/ or old wine additive to round it off. Therefore, we are able to enjoy “in fashion” Brut Nature with nothing added. Grape varieties used in the production of Cava are also unique with 3 key indigenous grapes used to blend mostly vintage white Cava and these are Macabeo,
Xarel.lo and Parellada with some producers blending in small percentages of either Chardonnay or Pinot Noir. A fourth indigenous variety is used by a handful of wineries, namely Subirat Parent. The greatest vintage Cavas are classically around a 50% Xarel.lo and 50% Macabeo and Parellada. Cavas produced outside Catalunya’s Penedès wine region tend to have a higher percentage of Chardonnay. Rosé Cava is made from the red varieties of Trepat (indigenous and mostly found in the Conca de Barberà wine region), Monastrell, Garnacha and Pinot Noir. Sadly, many bubble lovers around the world will probably never get to see a bottle of Premium Cava on the shelf at a well stocked wine shop. They certainly won’t find one in large chain supermarket and this is largely due to the fact that only a small percentage of the total Cava production falls into the Premium rank. Add to this the fact that wine importers tend to fear taking on quality Cava so as not to upset the sales of 150 million bottles of characterless, acidic, paint strippers that are here there and everywhere. That said EU residents should not have any problem getting their hands on any or all of the 50 Great Cavas as many online retailers especially those based in Spain will hold stock. Failing that some of the wineries included in the 50 Great Cavas have their own online shop. For Non EU bubble residents the task of getting your hands on a bottle of Great Cava is a tough one as customs and legislations tend to make life difficult.
50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 BY WINE PLEASURES
50 GREAT CAVAS THE RESULTS P. 6
50 GREAT CAVAS THE RESULTS Cava offers the best value of any of the Sparkling wines (made using the Traditional Method) producing regions of the world, agreed our tasting panel, but of course make sure it is one of the 50 Great Cavas as there’s a huge amount of not so great Cava out there......
50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 BY WINE PLEASURES
50 GREAT CAVAS THE RESULTS P. 7
Before making a purchase decision it is advisable to seek out tasting notes from the experts. Export of Cava tends to cater for a country’s general demand for dosage. For example, finding a Cava Brut Nature in the UK is a tall order, as the UK palate tends to prefer a sparkling wine with 8-15 grams of dosage - Cava Brut. Buying a known brand is tempting, as is purchasing an attractive label and bottle but more often than not you may be disappointed.
One judge summed up by saying “Drinking Cava instead of higher priced competitors is a no brainer but the problem is the consumer is not educated enough to know what to go for - a brand name or a pretty label or bottle often makes the decision for them. Also the show off appeal is against Cava with Champagne clearly the must buy bubbly if one has to impress in one’s social circles”
Cava price is also great. Most of the Reserva Cavas retailing between 7 - 12 Euros with Grand Reservas coming in between 12-20 Euros. The judges were particularly excited by the flights of Cavas in the Brut Nature Largo Crianza and the Brut Largo Crianza categories (>50 months ageing), with prices ranging from 18 Euros and anything up to 50 Euros. With Champagne prices set to continue to rise, due to 2016 being a complicated vintage, Cava is in an attractive option for sparkling wine lovers.
SCORING 112 Cavas were tasted and judged for the 2017 edition of 50 Great Cavas.
EXCEPTIONAL
OUTSTANDING
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
RECOMMENDED
97 - 100 PTS
94 - 96 PTS
90 - 94 PTS
85 - 89 PTS
4 20 62
26
50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 BY WINE PLEASURES
THE 50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 P. 8
THE 50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 TASTING NOTES
50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 BY WINE PLEASURES
THE 50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 P. 9
BRUT NATURE
BRUT NATURE RESERVA
AWARD
SCORE
AWARD
SCORE
S
92
S
90
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
AWARD
SCORE
AWARD
SCORE
G
97
G
95
CAVA
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
CAVA
Perelada Stars Brut Nature
EXCEPTIONAL
WINERY
Cava Brut Nature Carles Andreu
Finca Valldosera
CAVA
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
2014
7,25
12
CATEGORY
BN
Gran Fuchs de Vidal Cava Brut Nature Capità Vidal
Great value, extremely well crafted Brut Nature. Fine bubbles, soft pear and peach fruit and great balance of acidity and sugar.
AWARD
SCORE
S
90
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
AGEING (MTHS)
CATEGORY
2013
7,00
24
BN
More notes of time spent on lees - toasted bread, brioche, honey and roasted nuts. Complex, crisp and fresh but with a real depth of ripe peach fruit character and a long finish. Stands out from the crowd.
AGEING (MTHS)
24
48
CATEGORY
BNR
Floral & fresh aromas with great clarity & minerality. Fruity palate showing firm acidity. Has grip and tension, and minerality on the finish.
AWARD
SCORE
G
95
CAVA
WINERY
WINERY
OUTSTANDING
Castellroig Brut Nature Reserva
Vallformosa
SRP (€)
SRP (€)
2010
CAVA
Cava Mistinguett Brut Bature
HARVEST
HARVEST
WINERY
WINERY
Cellar Carles Andreu
Valldosera Subirat Parent Brut Nature WINERY
Castillo Perelada
CAVA
OUTSTANDING
Sabaté I Coca
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
2014
--
12
2012
12,4
40
CATEGORY
BN
CATEGORY
BNR
Classic Brut Nature. Crisp, fresh and appealing with creamy lemon and quince fruit character.
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
CATEGORY
2011
17,5
27
BNR
Quintessential Brut Nature Reserva. Great intensity and balance above everything else with true autolytic character ( brioche, sesame and soy) finely countered with fresh bracing acidity and tremendous length.
A more mature style with extremely ripe fruit. Complex aromas of grilled nuts, crisp acidity and great length. A stand out wine.
50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 BY WINE PLEASURES
THE 50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 P. 10
BRUT NATURE RESERVA
AWARD
SCORE
S
93
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
AWARD
SCORE
S
92
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
AWARD
SCORE
S
92
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
AWARD
SCORE
S
92
CAVA
CAVA
CAVA
CAVA
WINERY
WINERY
WINERY
WINERY
Carles Andreu Reserva Barrica Celler Carles Andreu
Emendis Cava Reserva Brut Nature Imum Emendis
MS 4.7 Brut Nature Finca Valldosera
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Vallformosa Cava Col.lecció Brut Nature Reserva Vallformosa
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
2012
15
36
2012
8,95
20
2010
12
36
2012
8,99
24
CATEGORY
BNR
CATEGORY
BNR
CATEGORY
BNR
CATEGORY
BNR
A very distinctive style with notes of vanilla and spice on the nose. The palate has fine bubbles and a very attractive forward fruit style with notes of preserved lemons and a long salty finish.
Pale lemon in colour with an expressive nose of peach melba and macedonia fruit salad allied with complex toasty notes. Crisp with a tight structure and nice acidity.
Attractive floral nose & very well balanced aromas of apple & bakery notes. Ripe fruit balanced by the acidity which is well integrated. Some minerality on the finish.
Extremely fine bead and soft fine bubbles. Clean and fresh with intense citrus fruits and subtle notes of toasted bread. Long & fine.
AWARD
SCORE
AWARD
SCORE
AWARD
SCORE
AWARD
SCORE
S
92
S
92
S
92
S
91
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
CAVA
CAVA
CAVA
CAVA
WINERY
WINERY
WINERY
WINERY
Valldosera Brut Nature Finca Valldosera
Cava Fuches de Vidal Cuvée Especial Reserva BN Capità Vidal
Tresor
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Bohigas Brut Nature Reserva
Pere Ventura
Fermí Bohigas
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
2011
10
30
2014
11,5
17
NV
14,6
30
2013
9,28
18
CATEGORY
BNR
CATEGORY
BNR
CATEGORY
BNR
CATEGORY
BNR
Smoked fruits & dates on the nose. Creamy mouthfeel. Fine bubble. Salty palate. Exquisite.
Fantastic price / quality ratio. Pale lemon with a fine bead and mousse. Complex for the category with notes of roasted nuts and quince on the palate.
Long lees ageing in evidence here with notes of truffle, roasted meat and toast. Very fat, rich and ripe.
An earthy style of Brut Nature Reserva, long complex and toasty.
50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 BY WINE PLEASURES
THE 50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 P. 11
BRUT NATURE RESERVA
AWARD
SCORE
S
91
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
AWARD
SCORE
S
90
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
AWARD
SCORE
S
90
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
AWARD
SCORE
S
90
CAVA
CAVA
CAVA
CAVA
WINERY
WINERY
WINERY
WINERY
Noa de Fermí Bohigas Fermí Bohigas
Celler Vell Brut Nature Reserva Celler Vell
Pere Mata Cupada N 16 Mata I Coloma
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Brut Nature Coupage Via de la Plata Via de la Plata
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
2013
16,6
22
2014
7,26
22
2012
8,95
36
2014
5
20
CATEGORY
BNR
CATEGORY
BNR
CATEGORY
BNR
CATEGORY
BNR
A more mature style with ripe fruit and what seems to be a higher level of dosage.
A classic cava with notes of apple and pear fruit with subtle toast and brioche characters.
Pale, subtle lemon fruit, fresh and saline, soft bubbles and a delicate finish.
A straightforward, fresh and grapey style. Simple and very drinkable.
AWARD
SCORE
AWARD
SCORE
AWARD
SCORE
AWARD
SCORE
S
90
S
90
S
90
S
90
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
CAVA
CAVA
CAVA
CAVA
WINERY
WINERY
WINERY
WINERY
Kairus Brut Nature Reserva Pep Wines
Dominio de la Vega Reserva Cuvée Prestige Dominio de la Vega
Dominio de la Vega Reserva Authentique Dominio de la Vega
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Castell San Antoní Gran Reserva Castell San Antoní
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
2013
10
30
2012
23,5
30
2013
8,5
18
NV
15,5
32
CATEGORY
BNR
CATEGORY
BNR
CATEGORY
BNR
CATEGORY
BNR
A classic Brut Nature Reserva. Extremely fine, long crisp and saline.
A deeper evolved colour. Meaty with notes of soy, spice and baked bread. Dense, long and very weighty in style. Tastes almost like classic aged vintage Champagne.
Great price and quality ratio. Light delicate citrus fruits combine with notes of honey. Long and delicate.
Clean, fresh and bursting with lemon and citrus fruit on the nose. A touch angular but very tight and well made. A great Cava with potential to age more in bottle.
50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 BY WINE PLEASURES
THE 50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 P. 12
BRUT NATURE GRAN RESERVA
BRUT NATURE GRAN RESERVA LARGA CRIANZA
AWARD
SCORE
G
95
AWARD
SCORE
G 94
OUTSTANDING
CAVA
OUTSTANDING
Ramón Canals Gran Reserva Limitada 2010 WINERY
Grand Cuvée
SCORE
S
93
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Cava Torelló 225 Brut Nature Gran Reserva
AGEING (MTHS)
CATEGORY
2013
13,35
32
BNGR
A finely crafted Cava with poise and finesse on nose and palate. Extremely fresh, toasty and complex. Still slightly austere but a wine that will continue to develop extremely well in bottle.
98
CAVA
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
2010
19
48
2012
17,5
36
CATEGORY
BNGR
CATEGORY
BNGR
A classic Brut Nature Gran Reserva. Fine bubble and mousse with clean yellow straw appearance. Complex toasty notes on the nose, slightly earthy, long and fine.
Very complete and complex aromatically. Earthy with notes of truffle and spice.
AWARD
SCORE
AWARD
SCORE
S
92
S
92
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
CAVA
CAVA
Gramona III Lustros Brut Nature Gran Reserva 2007
WINERY
WINERY
WINERY
Gramona
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Fuchs de Vidal Gran Reserva
Adernats
SRP (€)
G
EXCEPTIONAL
Torelló
Adernats XC
HARVEST
SCORE
CAVA
WINERY
Sumarroca
AWARD
WINERY
Canals Canals
CAVA
AWARD
Capità Vidal
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
2012
31,76
36
2012
17,5
38
CATEGORY
BNGR
CATEGORY
BNGR
Honey with apple compote & stone fruits. Length, elegance & broad flavours. Sleek in texture. Discreet toasty finish.
Dark straw in colour with a fine bead and mousse. A great nose of citrus fruit, peaches and toasted brioche. Extremely complex, long, fine and mineral.
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
CATEGORY
2007
24
96
BNGRLC
Fantastic, hugely expressive wine with very fine bubbles and a gentle mousse. Complex array of crème brulee, vanilla, dried fruits and panatone both on the nose and palate. Very long, almost eternal finish.
50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 BY WINE PLEASURES
THE 50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 P. 13
BRUT NATURE GRAN RESERVA LARGA CRIANZA
AWARD
SCORE
G
96
OUTSTANDING
AWARD
SCORE
G
96
OUTSTANDING
AWARD
SCORE
G
96
AWARD
OUTSTANDING
G 94
CAVA
CAVA
CAVA
CAVA
WINERY
WINERY
WINERY
WINERY
Gramona Imperial Brut Gran Reserva Gramona
Adernats Gran Reserva Brut Nature Adernats
Kripta Gran Añada 2006 Agustí Torelló
SCORE
OUTSTANDING
Cava Gran Reserva “Cuvée Antonio Mascaró” Mascaró
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
2010
16
60
2010
17,3
60
2006
80
120
2010
19,5
56
CATEGORY
BNGRLC
CATEGORY
BNGRLC
CATEGORY
BNGRLC
CATEGORY
BNGRLC
Powerhouse of a cava, both on the nose and in the mouth. Citrus peel, herbs spice and baked bread combine great supporting acidity and freshness. Superb.
A great foil between taught acidity and ripe tropical fruit. Notes of mountain herbs and aniseed combine to lend immense levels of complexity both on the nose and in the mouth. A very fine and particular style of Brut Nature Gran Reserva.
Very ripe and mature with notes of dried fruit and fine wood aged cognac on the nose. Extremely intense and long in the mouth with persistent nuttiness. A very classy particular style of long lees aged cava.
Extremely fine cava. Great acidity, balance and poise. Classic notes of toast, fruit salad and soy ( both on the nose and in the mouth). Long, saline with considerable umami character.
AWARD
AWARD
AWARD
AWARD
SCORE
G 94
OUTSTANDING
SCORE
G 94
OUTSTANDING
SCORE
G 94
OUTSTANDING
G 94
CAVA
CAVA
CAVA
CAVA
WINERY
WINERY
WINERY
WINERY
Montesquius Gran Reserva 2004 Brut Nature Magnum MONTESQUIUS
Pere Mata Reserva Familia Mata I Coloma
Lágrima Real 2010 UVESTE
SCORE
OUTSTANDING
Cava Mas Tinell Carpe Diem 2007 Heretat Mas Tinell
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
2004
32
135
2009
12,5
75
2010
10,3
50
2007
17,87
60
CATEGORY
BNGRLC
CATEGORY
BNGRLC
CATEGORY
BNGRLC
CATEGORY
BNGRLC
A very complex Brut Nature Gran Reserva. Roasted nuts, damp earth and orange peel on the nose. Complex in the mouth, long and citric.
Great value for money for this category. Notes of spice and vanilla on the nose. Toasty and fine in the mouth with a nice bitter sweet finish.
Stone fruits nose with some bakery elements. Excellent acidity and fruity palate. Good structure & grip with a long fruity finish.
Very yeasty and toasty with notes of caramel, soy and roasted meats. A dense, fat and earthy style. Unique.
50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 BY WINE PLEASURES
THE 50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 P. 14
BRUT NATURE GRAN RESERVA LARGA CRIANZA
AWARD
SCORE
S
93
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
AWARD
SCORE
S
93
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
AWARD
SCORE
S
93
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
AWARD
SCORE
S
92
CAVA
CAVA
CAVA
CAVA
WINERY
WINERY
WINERY
WINERY
Sabaté I Coca Reserva Familiar 2008 Sabaté I Coca
Miquel Pons Gran Reserva Vintage Miquel Pons
Robert J Mur Millesimé 2012 Reserva Brut Nature ROBERT J. MUR
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Cava Reyes de Aragón Gran Reserva - Edición Limitada Bodegas Langa
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
2008
32
80
2010
14
44
2012
11,5
50
2008
30
77
CATEGORY
BNGRLC
CATEGORY
BNGRLC
CATEGORY
BNLC
CATEGORY
BNGRLC
Intense and very toasty with notes of baked bread, yeast and crisp appley fruit. Powerful with hints of cinnamon and spice. Still needs time on cork but great potential. Long and saline.
Crisp and taught with intense lemon and lime fruit character. More focus on acidity and fruit than really extended lees ageing but fine and mineral nonetheless.
Quite floral and musky on the nose with a hint of red fruit character.
Quite developed both visually and on the nose. Notes of cut apple and some dried fruits and bitter almonds on the finish.
AWARD
SCORE
AWARD
SCORE
AWARD
SCORE
AWARD
SCORE
S
92
S
92
S
92
S
92
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
CAVA
CAVA
CAVA
CAVA
WINERY
WINERY
WINERY
WINERY
Cossetània Gran Reserva 2007 Castell D’Or
Rovellats Gran Reserva Masia S.XV Brut Nature Rovellats
Castellroig Brut Nature Gran Reserva Sabaté I Coca
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Cava Torelló Brut Nature Gran Reserva 2010 Torelló
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
2007
22
84
2008
24,84
96
2010
18
60
2010
13,6
70
CATEGORY
BNGRLC
CATEGORY
BNGRLC
CATEGORY
BNGRLC
CATEGORY
BNGRLC
Rich and nutty on the nose. Great underlying acidity and freshness make for an attractive and very well balanced wine.
Exuberant nose of brioche and exotic tropical fruit on the nose. Fat and glyceric in the mouth, very fine bubbles and a long finish of almonds and dried fruits.
Very fine bubbles. Notes of citrus fruits, smoke and flint in the nose. The palate is fat rich and long. Very well made.
A ripe and toasty nose with soft, plump apples reined in by decent acidity and a mild mineral note. Rounded fruit and a long length.
50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 BY WINE PLEASURES
BRUT NATURE GRAN RESERVA LARGA CRIANZA
AWARD
SCORE
S
92
THE 50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 P. 15
EXTRA BRUT
BRUT
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
AWARD
SCORE
AWARD
SCORE
G
95
S
92
CAVA
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
OUTSTANDING
WINERY
Rovellats Col.lecció Extra Brut
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
2011
12,5
50
CATEGORY
BNGRLC
Celler Vell Gran Reserva Extra Brut 12
CAVA
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
2011
30,55
48
CATEGORY
XBrut
Tarrida Brut WINERY
WINERY
Celler Vell
Sweet and more floral style - a touch short.
90
93
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Rovellats
CAVA
HARVEST
S
G
WINERY
Canals Munné
SCORE
SCORE
CAVA
ADN Canals
AWARD
AWARD
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Soft, quite neutral style which is light with broad commercial appeal.
AWARD
SCORE
S
92
CAVA
CAVA
WINERY
WINERY
Rovellats Gran Reserva Brut Nature
Pep Wines
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Cava Mas Tinell Cristina 2007
Rovellats
Heretat Mas Tinell
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
2010
14,88
60
2007
20,84
60
CATEGORY
BNGRLC
CATEGORY
XBGRLC
Intense peach melba fruit, with notes of apple and cream on the palate. Very fine and saline.
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
CATEGORY
2012
10,95
38
XBGR
Great value for money. Very fine and mouth filling style with ripe apple fruit, acidity in check and a long clean finish. Sound commercial Extra Brut where the emphasis is on fresh fruit.
Fine bubbles, toasty with subtle lemon fruit. A touch hard on the finish.
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
CATEGORY
2014
8
15
B
Again a very fresh well made Cava Brut with the focus on soft appley fruit and good balance between acidity and dosage.
50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 BY WINE PLEASURES
THE 50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 P. 16
BRUT
BRUT RESERVA
AWARD
SCORE
S
92
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
CAVA
Vega Medien Brut Ecológico WINERY
AWARD
SCORE
S
92
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
CAVA
Cava Mistinguett Brut WINERY
UVESTE
AWARD
SCORE
S
91
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Eximius UVESTE
CAVA
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
6,8
9
2014
--
12
2014
5
9
CATEGORY
B
CATEGORY
B
CATEGORY
B
Pale in colour with fresh pear and apple fruit. Light soft and well made. A great introduction to the Brut style
Tight, mineral style with leesy creamy notes and notes of wet stones. Fresh orchard fruits on the palate. A crowd pleaser
AWARD
SCORE
AWARD
SCORE
S
90
S
90
CAVA
WINERY
WINERY
Bodegas Muga
96
OUTSTANDING
2014
Cava Conde de Haro
G
CAVA
HARVEST
CAVA
SCORE
WINERY
Vallformosa
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
AWARD
Essential
WINERY
Juvé y Camps
Fresh and appley style. Crisp fresh and extremely well made for the price
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Papet de Mas Brut Pep Wines
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
2013
12,5
12,5
2014
7,5
17
CATEGORY
B
CATEGORY
B
Apple and honey fruit, pale in colour with fine bead and fine mousse. Some complex notes of baked bread and nuts on the finish.
A riper, fuller style with some tannic grip on the finish
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
CATEGORY
2013
13
30
BR
Fine and restrained at the beginning with real mineral and citric / soda character both on nose and palate. Soft and creamy in the mouth with a real feel of quality reserve wine - notes of candied apple and great cognac. A real tour de force. Fine Brut Reserve Cava.
50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 BY WINE PLEASURES
THE 50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 P. 17
BRUT RESERVA
AWARD
SCORE
G
95
OUTSTANDING
AWARD
SCORE
S
93
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
AWARD
SCORE
S
92
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
AWARD
SCORE
S
92
CAVA
CAVA
CAVA
CAVA
WINERY
WINERY
WINERY
WINERY
Codorníu Reina María Cristina Blanc de Noirs Codorníu
Vallformosa Cava Col.lecció Brut Reserva Vallformosa
Francolí Brut Reserva Castell D’Or
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Milesime Juvé y Camps
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
2013
17,95
15
2012
8,99
24
2014
10
18
2013
25
28
CATEGORY
BR
CATEGORY
BR
CATEGORY
BR
CATEGORY
BR
Pale lemon with fine, persistent small bubbles. Almost tropical in nature on the nose with complex notes of cream and fresh baked bread. Great contrast of ripe fruit with rapier like acidity and a long creamy finish. Excellent
Fine bead and mousse. Ripe melon fruit character with notes of dried citrus peel and stones. Mouth-filling, soft and gentle bubbles with some stewed apple fruit on the palate.
Fine persistent bead, pale colour. A dense, deep and complex nose with ripe peach and melon fruit dominating. Long and toasty on the finish.
Pale straw, fine mousse. Lean and tight with notes of citrus peel and flowers on the nose. Full and rich on the palate.
AWARD
SCORE
AWARD
SCORE
AWARD
SCORE
AWARD
SCORE
S
92
S
90
S
90
S
90
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
CAVA
CAVA
CAVA
CAVA
WINERY
WINERY
WINERY
WINERY
Cava Mistinguett Brut Reserva Vallformosa
Duc de Foix Reserva Especial Covides
Mas Codina Brut Reserva Mas Codina
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Adernats Reserva Brut Adernats
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
2013
--
15
2012
12,75
30
2014
7,5
18
2012
7,19
36
CATEGORY
BR
CATEGORY
BR
CATEGORY
BR
CATEGORY
BR
Extremely complex and toasty with notes of apple, baked banana and boulangerie. A ripe, rich mouthfillng style with notes of salted caramel and dried nuts on the finish. Excellent
Clear and bright with light fine mousse and bubbles. Notes of wet stones, crunchy apple fruit and spice gives way to a very crisp, tart finish. A lean style.
Ripe, rich and buttery. Tropical fruit and quite soft acidity. A very accessible style
Deeper, richer colour suggesting a longer crianza on lees. Ripe and rich with tropical fruit, baked bread and toasted nuts. Slightly sweet on the finish suggesting a little more sugar in the dosage
50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 BY WINE PLEASURES
BRUT RESERVA
THE 50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 P. 18
BRUT GRAN RESERVA
AWARD
SCORE
G 90
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
AWARD
SCORE
AWARD
SCORE
G
95
G
95
CAVA
AWARD
SCORE
G 94
OUTSTANDING
CAVA
Blanc de Noirs
OUTSTANDING
OUTSTANDING
WINERY
Jaume Codorníu Gran Reserva 2011 WINERY
Juvé y Camps
CAVA
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
2012
28
36
CATEGORY
BR
Vallformosa Cava 150 Brut Gran Reserva
Duran 5V Gran Reserva
WINERY
WINERY
Vallformosa
A more floral, delicate style for Brut Reserva with notes of cinnamon and baked apple fruit. Long, mineral and saline
Codorníu
CAVA
Canals Canals
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
2011
28
40
CATEGORY
BGR
Great,powerful and intense Brut Gran Reserve. Extremely tropical in nature with notes of dried herbs, mango and papaya. Extremely crisp and toasty, great depth of flavour and fine linear acidity
AWARD
SCORE
S
92
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
CAVA
Duran Origin Gran Reserva 2011 WINERY
Canals Canals
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
CATEGORY
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
CATEGORY
2012
39
30
BGR
2010
22
48
BGR
Buttery apple crumble aroma with a round, ripe palate with some lactic notes through a frothy mousse. Classy & Delicious.
Elegant, zesty and bright with attractive jammy notes. Delicate and refined with great finesse. Rich fruit palate and long finish.
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
2011
13
48
CATEGORY
BGR
Soft, creamy with light lemon fruit and fine bubbles and mousse. A touch sweet and sour on the palate with what seems like excessive dosage but great length nonetheless
50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 BY WINE PLEASURES
THE 50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 P. 19
BRUT GRAN RESERVA
BRUT GRAN RESERVA LARGA CRIANZA
AWARD
SCORE
S
92
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
CAVA
Agustí Torelló Mata Gran Reserva WINERY
AWARD
SCORE
S
91
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
G
97
G
95
EXCEPTIONAL
Pere Mata Cuvee Barcelona Mata I Coloma
CAVA
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
48
2012
10
36
CATEGORY
BGR
CATEGORY
BGR
Great concentration and intensity. A great melange of brioche and ripe peach fruit. Mouth filling, long and precise
OUTSTANDING
WINERY
Agustí Torelló
11
90
SCORE
CAVA
Agustí Torelló Mata Reserva
2011
S
AWARD
CAVA
HARVEST
SCORE
SCORE
WINERY
Agustí Torelló
AWARD
AWARD
Gramona Celler Battle Brut Gran Reserva 2005
A wine with great tension between tight, perfumed fruit and baked bread on the nose. Mouth filling mousse but smooth and with no aggression. Long and saline. Fine
WINERY
Gramona
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
2009
12,5
75
CATEGORY
BGRLC
Extremely complex nose, notes of dried apricots with a touch of flor/fino character. A traditional oxidative style, crisp fine and long. One for the connoisseur.
AWARD
SCORE
S
92
CAVA
CAVA
WINERY
WINERY
Núria Claverol Blanc de Negres
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Núria Claverol Homenatge
Sumarroca
Sumarroca
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
2012
22
40
2011
40
52
CATEGORY
BGR
CATEGORY
BGRLC
A rich, earthy style. Crisp acidity and lean lemon fruit on the palate with great length
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
CATEGORY
2005
50
120
BNGRLC
Rich golden straw in colour. Great depth of flavour with fine creamy mouthfeel and bubbles. Roasted nuts, cream, toast and lifted honeyed fruit. Great length and persistence with notes of salted caramel on the finish.
Still quite unevolved in colour for a long aged cava. Extremely rich and ripe fruit, but with a nice underlying freshness. Crisp, toasty and long
50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 BY WINE PLEASURES
BRUT GRAN RESERVA LARGA CRIANZA
AWARD
SCORE
S
92
THE 50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 P. 20
ROSADO
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
AWARD
SCORE
AWARD
SCORE
G
97
G
95
CAVA
Special Edition Brut Reserva
EXCEPTIONAL
WINERY
Torelló SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
2011
12,8
50
CATEGORY
BRLC
Gramona Argent Rosé
Fine creamy bubbles and mousse. Baked apples, quince and vanilla character follows through from the nose to the palate. Crisp and precise wine.
OUTSTANDING
CAVA
WINERY
WINERY
Pere Mata Cupada Rosé
WINERY
Gramona
AGEING (MTHS)
CATEGORY
2012
28
39
XBGR
Almost blanc de noir in colour - extremely delicate hues of copper. Very toasty nose suggesting barrel fermentation with notes of quince and honeycomb. Mouth filling and delicious. A very singular, stand out style
Cava Rosado MASCARÓ Brut “Rubor Aurorae”
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
2013
9,5
24
2014
10,95
13
CATEGORY
BR
CATEGORY
B
Very pale and delicate, floral with some citrus fruit notes. Linear acidity, tight structure, long and fine.
Very pale, almost blanc de noir in colour. Notes of fine lees ageing, restrained wild raspberry fruit character finishing with notes of merengue and cream. Fine rose cava.
AWARD
SCORE
AWARD
SCORE
S
93
S
93
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
CAVA
CAVA
WINERY
WINERY
Vallformosa
SRP (€)
OUTSTANDING
Mascaró
Cava Mistinguett Brut Rosé
HARVEST
SCORE
G 94
CAVA
Mata I Coloma
CAVA
HARVEST
AWARD
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Tresor Rosé Pere Venture
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
2014
--
12
NV
14,6
18
CATEGORY
B
CATEGORY
BR
Pale attractive vibrant rose in colour. Great balance and poise. Notes of ripe cherries with a very long, mineral finish.
Pale salmon pink, fine bead and bubbles in the mouth. Great acidity and length with exotic rhubarb fruit character. Very fine
50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 BY WINE PLEASURES
THE 50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 P. 21
ROSADO
AWARD
SCORE
S
92
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
AWARD
SCORE
S
91
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
AWARD
SCORE
S
90
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
AWARD
SCORE
S
90
CAVA
CAVA
CAVA
CAVA
WINERY
WINERY
WINERY
WINERY
Dominio de la Vega Reserva Especial Rosé Dominio de la Vega
Brut Rosé Coupage Vía de la Plata Vía de la Plata
Tantum Ergo Pinot Noir Brut Nature Hispano Suizas
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Vega Medin Brut Rose UVESTE
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
2013
19,5
24
2013
5,5
32
2013
20,5
24
2014
5,95
9
CATEGORY
BR
CATEGORY
BR
CATEGORY
BN
CATEGORY
B
Pale salmon pink with copper hues, classy wine with vibrant fruit and great structure.
Deep salmon pink, a touch tight and closed, but long and toasty
AWARD
SCORE
AWARD
SCORE
S
90
S
90
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
CAVA
CAVA
WINERY
WINERY
Cava Rosat Brut Carles Andreu Celler Carles Andreu
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Cava Mas Tinell Brut Rosé 2013 Heretat Mas Tinell
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
HARVEST
SRP (€)
AGEING (MTHS)
2013
8
24
2013
16,19
24
CATEGORY
BR
CATEGORY
BR
Great value for money. A toasty style with more lees ageing evident on the nose. Tart, crisp acidity, ripe strawberry fruit, long and salty.
Light cherry red, with notes of cream, toast and mountain herbs. An earthy style with firm acidity and tannin
Deep salmon pink in colour with fine bubbles. A lifted nose with soft, red fruits and some balsamic and herbal notes. Dry with a nice earthy grip on the finish
Soft, juicy and confected style. Sweet and ripe.
50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 BY WINE PLEASURES
CAVA
THE 50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 P. 22
WINERY
HARVEST
(MTHS)
SCORE
SRP
CATEGORY
BRUT NATURE Cava Brut Nature Carles Andreu
Cellar Carles Andreu
2013
24
92
€ 7,00
BN
Perelada Stars Brut Nature
Castillo Perelada
2014
12
90
€ 7,25
BN
Cava Mistinguett Brut Bature
Vallformosa
2014
12
90
Cava Palau Solà
Capità Vidal
2014
12
88
€ 6,50
BN
Tantum Ergo Vintage 11
Hispano-Suizas
2013
44
88
€ 20,50
BN
Brut Nature Olivé Batllori
Olive Batllori
2014
12
87
€ 7,50
BN
Tantum Ergo Chardonnay-Pinot Noir
Hispano-Suizas
2013
22
86
€ 20,50
BN
Gran Fuchs de Vidal Cava Brut Nature
Capità Vidal
2011
27
97
€ 17,50
BNR
Valldosera Subirat Parent Brut Nature
Finca Valldosera
2010
48
95
€ 24,00
BNR
Castellroig Brut Nature Reserva
Sabaté I Coca
2012
40
95
€ 12,40
BNR
Carles Andreu Reserva Barrica
Celler Carles Andreu
2012
36
93
€ 15,00
BNR
Emendis Cava Reserva Brut Nature Imum
Emendis
2012
20
92
€ 8,95
BNR
MS 4.7 Brut Nature
Finca Valldosera
2010
36
92
€ 12,00
BNR
Vallformosa Cava Col.lecció Brut Nature Reserva
Vallformosa
2012
24
92
€ 8,99
BNR
Valldosera Brut Nature
Finca Valldosera
2011
30
92
€ 10,00
BNR
Cava Fuches de Vidal Cuvée Especial Reserva BN
Capità Vidal
2014
17
92
€ 11,50
BNR
Tresor
Pere Ventura
NV
30
92
€ 14,60
BNR
Bohigas Brut Nature Reserva
Fermí Bohigas
2013
18
91
€ 9,28
BNR
Noa de Fermí Bohigas
Fermí Bohigas
2013
22
91
€ 16,60
BNR
Celler Vell Brut Nature Reserva
Celler Vell
2014
22
90
€ 7,26
BNR
Pere Mata Cupada N 16
Mata I Coloma
2012
36
90
€ 8,95
BNR
Brut Nature Coupage Via de la Plata
Via de la Plata
2014
20
90
€ 5,00
BNR
Kairus Brut Nature Reserva
Pep Wines
2013
30
90
€ 10,00
BNR
Dominio de la Vega Reserva Cuvée Prestige
Dominio de la Vega
2012
30
90
€ 23,50
BNR
Dominio de la Vega Reserva Authentique
Dominio de la Vega
2013
18
90
€ 8,50
BNR
Castell San Antoní Gran Reserva
Castell San Antoní
NV
32
90
€ 15,50
BNR
Gran Claustro Brut Nature Reserva
Castillo Perelada
2011
24
89
€ 14,00
BNR
-
BN
BRUT NATURE RESERVA
50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 BY WINE PLEASURES
THE 50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 P. 23
CAVA
WINERY
HARVEST
(MTHS)
SCORE
Eunoia
SRP
CATEGORY
Canals Munné
2013
24
89
€ 10,50
BNR
Brut Nature Chardonnay Vía de la Plata
Vía de la Plata
2014
20
88
€ 8,50
BNR
Cava Caprasia
Bodegas Vegalfaro
2013
24
88
€ 10,00
BNR
Castell Sant Antoní Primvs Brut Nature
Castell San Antoní
NV
15
88
€ 10,50
BNR
Fuchs de Vidal Unic
Capità Vidal
2012
36
88
€ 17,50
BNR
Vallformosa Cava Col.lecció Parellada Chardonnay
Vallformosa
2013
24
86
€ 8,99
BNR
Brut Nature Reserva Olivé Batllori
Olive Batllori
2013
24
82
€ 8,50
BNR
Grand Cuvée
Sumarroca
2013
32
95
€ 13,35
BNGR
Ramón Canals Gran Reserva Limitada 2010
Canals Canals
2010
48
94
€ 19,00
BNGR
Cava Torelló 225 Brut Nature Gran Reserva
Torelló
2012
36
93
€ 17,50
BNGR
Adernats XC
Adernats
2012
36
92
€ 31,76
BNGR
Fuchs de Vidal Gran Reserva
Capità Vidal
2012
38
92
€ 17,50
BNGR
Gramona III Lustros Brut Nature Gran Reserva 2007
Gramona
2007
96
98
€ 24,00
BNGRLC
Gramona Imperial Brut Gran Reserva
Gramona
2010
60
96
€ 16,00
BNGRLC
Adernats Gran Reserva Brut Nature
Adernats
2010
60
96
€ 17,30
BNGRLC
kripta Gran Añada 2006
Agustí Torelló
2006
120
96
€ 80,00
BNGRLC
Cava Gran Reserva “Cuvée Antonio Mascaró”
Mascaró
2010
56
94
€ 19,50
BNGRLC
Montesquius Gran Reserva 2004 Brut Nature Magnum
MONTESQUIUS
2004
135
94
€ 32,00
BNGRLC
Pere Mata Reserva Familia
Mata I Coloma
2009
75
94
€ 12,50
BNGRLC
Lágrima Real 2010
UVESTE
2010
50
94
€ 10,30
BNGRLC
Cava Mas Tinell Carpe Diem 2007
Heretat Mas Tinell
2007
60
94
€ 17,87
BNGRLC
Sabaté I Coca Reserva Familiar 2008
Sabaté I Coca
2008
80
93
€ 32,00
BNGRLC
Miquel Pons Gran Reserva Vintage
Miquel Pons
2010
44
93
€ 14,00
BNGRLC
Robert J Mur Millesimé 2012 Reserva Brut Nature
ROBERT J. MUR
2012
50
93
€ 11,50
BNGRLC
BRUT NATURE GRAN RESERVA
BRUT NATURE GRAN RESERVA LARGA CRIANZA
50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 BY WINE PLEASURES
THE 50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 P. 24
CAVA
WINERY
HARVEST
(MTHS)
SCORE
Cava Reyes de Aragón Gran Reserva - Edición Limitada
SRP
CATEGORY
Bodegas Langa
2008
77
92
€ 30,00
BNGRLC
Cossetània Gran Reserva 2007
Castell D’Or
2007
84
92
€ 22,00
BNGRLC
Rovellats Gran Reserva Masia S.XV Brut Nature
Rovellats
2008
96
92
€ 24,84
BNGRLC
Castellroig Brut Nature Gran Reserva
Sabaté I Coca
2010
60
92
€ 18,00
BNGRLC
Cava Torelló Brut Nature Gran Reserva 2010
Torelló
2010
70
92
€ 13,60
BNGRLC
ADN Canals
Canals Munné
2011
50
92
€ 12,50
BNGRLC
Rovellats Gran Reserva Brut Nature
Rovellats
2010
60
90
€ 14,88
BNGRLC
Celler Vell Gran Reserva Extra Brut 12
Celler Vell
2012
38
95
€ 10,95
XBGR
Rovellats Col.lecció Extra Brut
Rovellats
2011
48
92
€ 30,55
XBGR
Cava Mas Tinell Cristina 2007
Heretat Mas Tinell
2007
60
90
€ 20,84
XBGRLC
Pere Mata Cupada de Nadal
Mata I Coloma
2010
60
88
€ 12,00
XBGR
Tarrida Brut
Pep Wines
2014
15
93
€ 8,00
B
Vega Medien Brut Ecológico
UVESTE
2014
9
92
€ 6,80
B
Cava Mistinguett Brut
Vallformosa
2014
12
92
EximIus Brut
UVESTE
2014
9
91
€ 5,00
B
Cava Conde de Haro
Bodegas Muga
2013
12,5
90
€ 12,50
B
Papet de Mas Brut
Pep Wines
2014
17
90
€ 7,50
B
Vega Medien Brut
UVESTE
2014
9
88
€ 6,00
B
EXTRA BRUT
BRUT
-
B
50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 BY WINE PLEASURES
CAVA
THE 50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 P. 25
WINERY
HARVEST
(MTHS)
SCORE
SRP
CATEGORY
BRUT RESERVA Essential
Juvé y Camps
2013
30
96
€ 13,00
BR
Codorníu Reina María Cristina Blanc de Noirs
Codorníu
2013
15
95
€ 17,95
BR
Vallformosa Cava Col.lecció Brut Reserva
Vallformosa
2012
24
93
€ 8,99
BR
Francolí Brut Reserva
Castell D’Or
2014
18
92
€ 10,00
BR
Milesime
Juvé y Camps
2013
28
92
€ 25,00
BR
Cava Mistinguett Brut Reserva
Vallformosa
2013
15
92
Duc de Foix Reserva Especial
Covides
2012
30
90
€ 12,75
BR
Mas Codina Brut Reserva
Mas Codina
2014
18
90
€ 7,50
BR
Adernats Reserva Brut
Adernats
2012
36
90
€ 7,19
BR
Blanc de Noirs
Juvé y Camps
2012
36
90
€ 28,00
BR
Cava Reserva MASCARÓ Brut “Nigrum”
Mascaró
2012
36
88
€ 9,00
BR
Montserrat Canals Torres
Canals Munné
2013
27
88
€ 8,50
BR
Dominio de la Vega Reserva Especial
Dominio de la Vega
2013
24
86
€ 17,50
BR
Brut Reserva Ecológic Olivé Batllori
Olivé Batllori
2013
15
85
€ 9,00
BR
Perelada Brut Reserva
Castillo Perelada
NV
15
84
€ 5,95
BR
-
BR
BRUT GRAN RESERVA Vallformosa Cava 150 Brut Gran Reserva
Vallformosa
2012
30
95
€ 39,00
BGR
Duran 5V Gran Reserva
Canals Canals
2010
48
95
€ 22,00
BGR
Jaume Codorníu Gran Reserva 2011
Codorníu
2011
40
94
€ 28,00
BGR
Duran Origin Gran Reserva 2011
Canals Canals
2011
48
92
€ 13,00
BGR
Agustí Torelló Mata Gran Reserva
Agustí Torelló
2011
48
92
€ 11,00
BGR
Agustí Torelló Mata Reserva
Agustí Torelló
2012
36
91
€ 10,00
BGR
Núria Claverol Blanc de Negres
Sumarroca
2012
40
90
€ 22,00
BGR
50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 BY WINE PLEASURES
CAVA
THE 50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 P. 26
WINERY
HARVEST
(MTHS)
SCORE
SRP
CATEGORY
Gramona Celler Battle Brut Gran Reserva 2005
Gramona
2005
120
97
€ 50,00
BGRLC
Pere Mata Cuvee Barcelona
Mata I Coloma
2009
75
95
€ 12,50
BGRLC
Núria Claverol Homenatge
Sumarroca
2011
52
92
€ 40,00
BGRLC
Special Edition Brut Reserva
Torelló
2011
50
92
€ 12,80
BGRLC
Gramona Argent Rosé
Gramona
2012
39
97
€ 28,00
XBGR
Pere Mata Cupada Rosé
Mata I Coloma
2013
24
95
€ 9,50
BR
Cava Rosado MASCARÓ Brut “Rubor Aurorae”
Mascaró
2014
13
94
€ 10,95
B
Cava Mistinguett Brut Rosé
Vallformosa
2014
12
93
Tresor Rosé
Pere Venture
NV
15
93
€ 14,60
BR
Dominio de la Vega Reserva Especial Rosé
Dominio de la Vega
2013
24
92
€ 19,50
BR
Brut Rosé Coupage Vía de la Plata
Vía de la Plata
2013
32
91
€ 5,50
BR
Tantum Ergo Pinot Noir Brut Nature
Hispano Suizas
2013
24
90
€ 20,50
BN
Vega Medin Brut Rose
UVESTE
2014
9
90
€ 5,95
B
Cava Rosat Brut Carles Andreu
Celler Carles Andreu
2013
24
90
€ 8,00
BR
Cava Mas Tinell Brut Rosé 2013
Heretat Mas Tinell
2013
24
90
€ 16,19
BR
Bohigas Brut Rosat
Fermí Bohigas
2013
15
89
€ 8,83
B
Vallformosa Cava Col.lecció Pinot Noir
Vallformosa
2013
15
88
€ 9,99
B
Cava Conde de Haro Rosé
Bodegas Muga
2013
20
88
€ 18,00
B
Celler Vell Extra Brut Rosé
Celler Vell
2014
25
88
€ 9,50
BR
Montesquius Rosé Brut Nature Gran Reserva 2009
MONTESQUIUS
2009
64
82
€ 16,50
BNGR
BRUT GRAN RESERVA LARGA CRIANZA
ROSADO
-
B
50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 BY WINE PLEASURES
WHAT THE JUDGES THOUGHT
WHAT THE JUDGES THOUGHT P. 27
Anthony Swift Swift started in the wine tourism industry in 2003 when he created Wine Pleasures based in Spain’s Penedès wine region, also known to many as Cava country. From there he has grown the company from a wine tasting tour operation to an event company for wine importers to meet boutique wine producers from the Balkans, Italy, Portugal and Spain. He also masterminded the now prestigious annual International Wine Tourism Conference (IWINETC). In 2012 he searched the internet for information and panel tastings on Cava and got nothing and so was born the initiative of giving both wine professionals and wine consumers an objective and fair minded annual publication on the world of Premium Cava titled - 50 Great Cavas. Anthony’s Top Cava: Valldosera Subirat Parent Brut Nature 2010 by Finca Valldosera Floral & fresh aromas with great clarity & minerality. Fruity palate showing firm acidity. Has grip and tension, and minerality on the finish. Anthony’s General Tasting Impressions: “Overall I was very impressed with the range of quality of Cavas entered. Young and Reserva Cavas showed wonderful
freshness and certainly need to be drunk up as soon as purchased. Longer aged Cavas were generally drinking perfectly, weighty palates, well balanced with veins of acidity keeping their freshness. There were some exceptional Cavas from great terroirs, especially La LLacuna, Massís de Garraf and Pontons. Final Thoughts: Cava offers the best value of any Sparkling Wines, but choose carefully as there is immense diversity with so many levels of dosage, ranging from Brut Nature to Sweet with a definite trend on reducing dosage to give a fresher style”.
50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 BY WINE PLEASURES
WHAT THE JUDGES THOUGHT P. 28
Norrel Robertson MW
Juan Manuel Gonzalvo
Norrel is a Master of Wine and Qualified Winemaker, with a post graduate degree in Viticulture and Enology, and a total of 25 years in the wine industry. Previously, he bought and sold wine in Scotland and London. Then, in 1997 he worked his first vintage in Tuscany, followed by vintages in Portugal, Adelaide Hills, Australia and France. He obtained his MS in 2000, while working in France, which was followed by a stint in New Zealand where he obtained his post graduate degree in Viticulture. He continued with a vintage in Chile and eventually decided to settle in Spain, where he has resided with his family since 2003. He is currently the only Master of Wine in Spain. Norrel’s days are very diverse, as he wears many professional hats. He currently lives in Calatayud, Spain, where he owns 10 hectors of old vine Granacha; in addition to making wine in other areas. When not crafting his own wine, he judges tastings and consults for 2-3 clients in Spain and South Africa.
fine, fresh, and elegant. The Brut Nature Gran Reserva Larga Crianza was a strong flight. In particular, Gramona III Lustros Brut Nature Gran Reserva 2007 by Gramona, scored high in the tasting, and was deserving of a Gold Metal. In the Brut Gran Reserva Larga Crianza category, the Gramona Celler Battle Brut Gran Reserva 2005 by Gramona rated high as well.
Norrel’s Top Cava: In the Rosado category, the Pere Mata Cupada Rosé 2013 by Mata i Coloma and the Gramona Argent Rosé 2012 by Gramona were excellent. Both Rosados were lighter in color, very
Final Thoughts: This was a delightful tasting and has restored my faith in category. I’m a born again Cava lover!
Norrel’s General Tasting Impressions: The Cavas were a pleasure to taste; a very pleasant surprise. The quality of the wines was very high. This tasting restored my faith in the Spanish Cava category. The long lees aged wines were strong in character and balance. And, the Brut category had a stylistic change which is noticeable over the past couple years. The recent changes made by producers have created a more easy-drinking cava, which is a step in the right direction.
Born in Zaragoza, Spain, Juan is a qualified enologist. Between 1996 and 2002, he worked as a wine maker in the Spanish Designations of Origen of Somontano, Cariñena & Calatayud. Since then Juan Manuel has been a consultant helping many Spanish wineries with tasks such as blending, barrel choice, quality control, export… When he’s not at a winery he can be found leading wine tastings, giving courses and judging wine competitions. Today he is a Consultant and Buyer for Uvinum, Wine maker at Vinicom, Wine – making consultant for several wineries. Juan Manuel is considered an expert in Spanish wine and wine tasting. He tastes and evaluates around 2,000 wines a year and shares his tasting notes extensively on the social media channels. Juan Manuel’s Top Cavas: The category of Brut Nature Reseva was nice; not too young, and not too old. In this selection of Cava, my favorites included: Castellroig Brut Nature Reserva 2012 by Sabate I Coca, Bohigas Brut Nature Reserva 2013 by Fermí Bohigas, and Cava Fuchs de Vidal Cuveé Especial Reserva Brut Nature by Capità Vidal. The Castellroig Brut Nature Reserva was fresh, had good balance,
displayed some spicy characteristics, and was overall elegant. Gramona III Lustros Brut Nature Gran Reserva 2007 by Gramona was floral, spicy, very had good balance. Juan’s General Tasting Impressions: The Reserve Brut and Brut Nature were a very nice representation of Spanish Cava. It is difficult to make Cava aged more than 40-50 months and preserve the freshness, fruit and floral aromas, along with everything I expect when I taste a Spanish Cava. But during the tasting, these Cavas shined. The young Cavas were nice to drink, but some lacked structure. I found the best Cavas were aged on the lees for between 15-30 months. Final Thoughts: I was surprised by the long aged Gran Reservas. They showed preserved freshness, punch, and intensity. Two years ago, we tasted long aged Cavas (50+ months) and they were not as expressive or heavy. Lastly, it was fantastic to taste with such professionals. It was great to learn from others.
50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 BY WINE PLEASURES
WHAT THE JUDGES THOUGHT P. 29
Isaac Fernandez Sanvisens Isaac is a Journalist and Wine Writer. He has written about wine and wine tourism for 12 years. Isaac has authored several books, including the most recent, De Vinos Por Europa; and is currently collaborating on the Spanish version of Wine for Dummies and the two volumes of Rutes del Vi de Catalunya. He previously coordinated for the Catalonia Wine Magazine, Cupatges. Isaac’s Top Cava: Adernats Gran Reserva Brut Nature 2010 by Adernats had complex aromas and flavours. Buttery notes, yeasty, with fresh citrus fruit as well. Herbaceous notes. Refreshing. Great, complex and balanced result. This was a good representation of a long aged Cava. Isaac’s General Tasting Impressions: The quality of Cavas can be compared to other top sparkling wines in the world. The long aged Cavas were the best category; however, these Cavas are not well known outside Spain. The market tends to be rather closed to more expensive Cavas, but tasting them would convince many to open the door. Lastly, there was a good representation of ‘commercial’ Cavas, which were easy to drink.
Dr. Ana Cristina Lapeña Final Thoughts: Give Cava of long ageing an opportunity, then decide. You may find that they’re good enough, and worth the price.
Ana Cristina Lapeña holds a PhD in Biochemistry. She has worked in different research groups related to wine biochemistry. She was in charge of the R&D department at Bodega Pirineos from 2000 to 2004. Ana’s Top Cavas: Fuchs de Vidal Gran Reserva 2012 by Capità Vidal. Pleasantly surprised by its floral notes. With a long and deep aftertaste that remarks the characteristic ageing notes of great Cavas. Ana’s General Tasting Impressions: It has been an amazing experience to have the opportunity to taste so many great Cavas. In my opinion, the average quality of the Cavas was very good and when comparing, one can notice different trends in style between producers which is always enjoyable. As a whole the tasting was a great session because I had the opportunity to learn from fellow Cava experts. Final Thoughts: We have seen really impressive Cavas in the tasting sessions, but we must remember that to keep improving the quality of the wines we should continue investing on the R&D and technical capabilities of our wineries.
50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 BY WINE PLEASURES
WHAT THE JUDGES THOUGHT P. 30
Dr. Ricardo Lopez Ricardo Lopez has been a senior lecturer at Universidad de Zaragoza (Spain) since 2007. He holds a PhD in Analytical Chemistry with research interests and publications primarily in the field of wine flavour chemistry. Ricardo’s Top Cava: Fuchs de Vidal Gran Reserva 2012 by Capità Vidal. A Cava which showed complexity on the nose, with fruity notes from the grape and toasty notes from the long ageing on the lees. The palate was acidic and balanced, with a long finish. All of the aromas and flavors together produced more than just nose alone. The wine was complex, but approachable, with caramel and pineapple on the finish. Ricardo’s General Tasting Impressions: 50 Great Cavas - the tasting was very good. It is important that we do not focus on defects, but rather celebrate the good components. The younger Cavas were refreshing, fruity, and yeasty. And, as a whole, the Cavas exceeded expectations. I believe that tasting directly from the producers contributed to the Cavas being nice and fresh.
Tiffany Cox-Light Final Thoughts: It is such a pity to spit.
Born in California, Tiffany received her MBA and worked in Finance prior to becoming a qualified Wine Sommelier in 2013. She also holds the WSET Level III Award in Wines. She has evaluated wine in the USA, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and all over Europe. In 2014, she moved to Australia to immerse herself in Australian wine, and dabbled in New Zealand wine as well. Since the beginning of 2016, wine tasting has led her to Italy, Spain, Portugal, France, and Austria. She writes for the wine and travel website www. TheLightAdventure.com, and will soon be importing wine into the US for her wine club. Tiffany’s Top Cavas: Adernats Gran Reserva Brut Nature by Adernats 2010 presented with inviting lemon citrus and minerality on the nose, accompanied by a crisp, fresh and balanced palate, with a long enjoyable finish. Tiffany’s General Tasting Impressions: I was very pleasantly surprised with the overall quality, complexity and drinkability of the Brut Nature Gran Reserva Larga Crianza flight. All of these wines were of superior quality, and many would stand, shoulder to shoulder,
with the best sparkling wines in the world. Final Thoughts: This was a fantastic opportunity to taste well-produced Cava with experienced and knowledgeable wine professionals. Great discussions and great wines!
50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 BY WINE PLEASURES
TO SUM UP P. 31
T O SUM UP
50 GREAT CAVAS 2017 BY WINE PLEASURES
TO SUM UP P. 32
The format of the tasters each from a different vantage point - Master of Wine - Sommelier Research - Writer- Wine Buyer and Wine Maker - made this year’s panel a strong one. This year’s results are an accurate snapshot of the Great Cavas being made in Spain.
The format of the tasters each from a different vantage point - Master of Wine - Sommelier Research - Writer- Wine Buyer and Wine Maker - made this year’s panel a strong one. This year’s results are an accurate snapshot of the Great Cavas being made in Spain. Cavas were placed in 10 different categories according to the amount of dosage and ageing time on the lees and were judged on several criteria. Of the 112 Cavas tasted, 4 Cavas were deemed to be Exceptional and 19 were classified as Outstanding and well deserved gold medals winners. Many of the Cavas tasted (62) fell into the Highly Recommend category (Silver medals). Overall, there was plenty of originality and diversity with both indigenous and international grape varieties and wine makers. Bubble lovers will not be disappointed when tasting any or all of the 50 Great Cavas 2017. Anthony Swift.
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