What makes this wine unique?

This wine is the least expensive vintage bubbly on the planet (taste it blind against a $40 non-vintage “big brand” Champagne). Made by the Naveran family since 1901. This bodega has a great tradition of crafting Cavas that are superb expressions of clean, bright, citrus-inflected aromas and flavors with the all-important tiny bubbles.

Rating history:

Grape:

50% Xarello, 30% Macabeo and 20% Parellada.

Pairing Suggestions:

Cavas are very versatile as an apéritif before the meal, to accompany dessert afterwards and (Surprise!) to enjoy during the meal. This Naverán Brut Vintage will pair with soft cheeses, fresh fruit, white meats (pork and chicken) and even richly flavored red meats. This Cava is great for sipping on its own, especially for receptions and other “standing up” events.

Vinification and ageing:

Each grape variety is harvested, crushed and fermented separately in stainless steel tanks at low temperature, with coupage in November, tirage and second fermentation in the bottle typical of the méthode Champenoise for a minimum of two years. Then, disgorgement (degüelle) is followed by dosage. The wine is aged for 18 months on its lees.

Production:

10,000 cases made; 6,000 for the U.S.

Location, Soil, Climate:

The vineyards are located within the DO Penedés (Zone 5) in northeastern Spain, a few miles south of Barcelona in the Alt Penedés subregion, at an elevation of 400 meters (1,312 ft.). This area, the High Penedés, has been a place where French grape varieties have been grown for centuries. The earliest reference is the 3rd Century A.D. during the Roman occupation of Spain. The soils are composed of limestone and sandy topsoil with clay subsoil. The texture of the topsoil allows for good drainage while the subsoil has good water retention. The medium levels of pH in the soil and low percentage of organic matter results in moderate yields and balanced acidity in the grapes. Even though Naverán has a cooler climate than Casteller, the harvest at Naverán happens before Casteller due to the steeper slopes of the vineyards. Regarding the area’s climate, the average temperature from April-October is 66.3ºF and the annual rainfall is 23.9 inches. The days are hot with moderate night temperatures for this high Mediterranean region. To clarify, “high” refers to the northern latitude and “Mediterranean” to the proximity of the sea. The Naveran Estate’s higher elevation allows the grapes to retain more natural acidity, which results in wines that are zesty, fresh and have expressive aromas.

Tasting notes:

Naverán Brut Vintage has expressive and zesty floral, toasted bread and citrus aromas. Tangy, suave, light and clean citrus and stone fruit flavors on the palate have a fresh and crisp character. Tasted blind, it’s easy to mistake this for great Champagne.

Alcohol Content:

11.5%

UPC Code:

810411010334