Prosecco, Champagne, or Cava?

7 Oct, 2024, No comments

stacked cava bottles aging on the lees

When thinking about sparkling wine, Champagne and Prosecco are the iconic names that any wine enthusiast most probably has in mind.

However, and despite being around for a while, lovers of great bubbles tend to overlook a third type of sparkling wine that doesn’t enjoy the same deserved recognition as the other two. And that is Cava.

While this name might sound new to some people, the truth is that Cava is the third great spear of the “sparkling wine trident”, along with the Italian Prosecco and the high quality Champagne.

But what are the differences between the three types of sparkling wine? Are they all equally relevant in terms of quality?

To find a proper answer, let’s first understand what Cava is about:

What is a Cava sparkling wine?

Adopting the historical name of a winery's cellar where the wines are stored for aging, the production of Cava sparkling wine has been around the Iberic Peninsula for almost 2 centuries.

Dating back to the 19th century and with 95% of its output produced in Catalonia, this high quality sparkling wine uses the same method of production as the french Champagne, ensuring a taste of excellence.

Known as the traditional method or champenoise, this production method focuses on a second fermentation of the base wine in the bottle - an essential process to develop its sparkling bubbles and distinct bouquet.

Furthermore, a mandatory aging period of at least 9 months helps the final wine to achieve its optimal texture, creaminess and aromas to be ready for consumption.

Now that we know what Cava is about, let’s see what sets it apart from the famous Prosecco:

two bottles of cava at sunset

Prosecco vs. Cava

While both Cava and Champagne undergo a second fermentation in the bottle, the elaboration of Prosecco follows the charmat method, where the base wine is fermented in large stainless steel tanks to develop its classic bubbles.

This method focuses on extracting the primary aromas of the base wine, which doesn't undergo a second fermentation in the bottle as both Cava and Champagne do. Therefore, Prosecco ends up being a much sweeter and lighter sparkling wine than the other two.

While a Cava develops all its flavors and aromas thanks to the main fermentation in the bottle and its aging on the lees, a Prosecco lacks the maturation and aromatic intensity of a high quality sparkling wine.

In that sense, where a Prosecco would be ideal to enjoy as an aperitif or in a cocktail mix, a Cava is better suited for richer meals, pairing better with a wider range of flavors and cuisine styles.

a bottle of cava and two wine glasses at sunset

Cava vs. Champagne

As we’ve seen, both Champagne and Cava share the same traditional method of production. However, there is a crucial difference that sets these two types of sparkling wine apart from each other: the climate.

Located in northern France, the Champagne region suffers from colder temperatures that affect the growing characteristics of the grapes, limiting their ripening conditions. On the other hand, Cava enjoys the versatility of a Mediterranean climate, allowing the grapes more time to ripen until an optimal stage.

Therefore, while Champagne is limited in producing vintage and dry sparkling wines, Cava can afford to elaborate different types and styles, thanks to the warmer temperatures and longer hours of sun.

But the versatility of Cava goes even further:

Despite using a traditional coupage (blending) of three native varieties as Champagne does, Cava allows a wider range of authorized varieties, enhancing the styles of production and pairing options with different cuisine styles.

two bottles of cava shining under the sunset light

Why Cava?

There are many reasons that explain why Cava is a guarantee of excellence in sparkling wine that every wine enthusiast should know about.

Let’s review the main ones we have discussed so far:

1. Production

The second fermentation of the wine and its aging period in the bottle ensures the development of all the nuances and aromatic complexity, essential to achieve the high quality status of the resulting Cava.

2. Flavor

With its optimal grape ripening, Cava offers an extra variety of flavors thanks to its Brut Nature category, producing dry sparkling wines of an excellent character and personality that can’t be found in the likes of Prosecco or Champagne.

3. Versatility

Beyond the classic blending of Macabeu, Xarel.lo and Parellada, a Cava sparkling wine is also produced with other authorized varieties, such as Malvasia, Chardonnay, Garnatxa, Monastrell, Trepat, or Pinot Noir, offering wider possibilities in terms of flavors and styles.

4. Affordability

While the price of a Champagne bottle is directly affected by the limited production of the region, Cava winemakers can afford to increase their production without compromising quality, which leads to lower costs, and therefore, more affordable prices.

a bottle of cava sparkling wine at sunset

Final thoughts

The unique identity of Cava is well known among wine experts and enthusiasts alike.

Boasting an intense aroma and complexity like no other, Cava is a taste of excellence in sparkling wine, and a true pleasure for the most demanding palates.

At Raïm we specialize in premium Cavas and classic wines from Catalonia, a fascinating Mediterranean region in northeastern Spain. Wines produced with both native and international grape varieties from local estate vineyards.

Shop high quality wines today and discover the Mediterranean flavor at its best!

Introducing Catalan wine regions: D.O. Empordà

9 Sep, 2024, No comments

sea waves splashing on coastal rocks in emporda region

With an average production of 65,000 hl., the D.O. Empordà wine region in Catalonia is home to an array of crisp and highly aromatic wines that are a festival for the senses.

Flanked by the iconic headland of Cap de Creus and a stunning rocky coastline, Empordà is a renowned wine growing area that attracts wine enthusiasts and foodies alike.

The region boasts a typical Mediterranean climate that combines mild winters and hot summers, where its sun-drenched vineyards extend across vast plains and mountain hills that enjoy a privileged location by the sea.

Let’s explore what makes this region a unique wine growing area of its kind:

Welcome to D.O. Empordà

The story of winemaking in the D.O. Empordà wine region stretches back over two millennia, with evidence of viticulture dating back to the ancient Greeks and Romans.

Nestled between the Pyrenees mountains on the north and the blue waters of Costa Brava on the east, Empordà's gifted location delivers highly acidic wines of delicate flavors and intense aromas.

The Tramuntana wind is the most characteristic aspect of the region’s climate, deeply affecting the vine cultivation and growing process, as well as the vineyard’s health.

In addition to its world-class wines, Empordà is also celebrated for its rich cultural heritage and charming medieval villages, such as Pals and Peratallada, as well as the region's local cuisine.

a roman amphitheatre at sunrise

A bit of history

Named after an important Greek colony, Empórion, the wine culture and its trade arrived in the Empordà area approximately in the VI century BC. Four centuries later, the region would become one of the most prosperous colonies in the Tarraconensis province of the Roman Empire.

In the Middle Ages, when vines were planted around abbeys and monasteries, the region’s monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes established its own practice in the art of vine growing, settling the foundations of a long winemaking tradition in the area.

The infamous Phylloxera epidemic that ruined most of the European vineyards also made its way across Empordà in the late 19th century, ruining what would have been very prosperous times that would take decades to recover.

Two centuries later, thanks to advanced production methods and new growing practices, the region has recovered its vine growing potential and improved the quality of its winemaking process.

three colourful grape clusters against a wall

Grape varieties and terroir

One of the most captivating aspects of D.O. Empordà is the diversity of its terroir, shaped by rugged hills and the Tramuntana wind that sweeps through the vineyards.

With an average temperature of 15ºC and a rainfall of 600 liters per year, the region’s mild winters and hot summers create an ideal environment for high quality winemaking, allowing for the cultivation of a wide range of grape varieties.

The main red ones include Garnatxa and Carinyena, along with the whites Macabeu and Garnatxa Blanca, producing wines that reflect the region's Mediterranean climate.

In recent years, winemakers have also embraced the cultivation of international varieties such as Chardonnay, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot, blending them with local grapes to create unique and innovative wines.

plain fields from emporda wine region in catalonia

Vineyards by the sea

Another aspect that makes D.O. Empordà a unique wine region in Catalonia is the large extension of its growing area, covering around 2000 hectares.

Divided into the 2 subregions Alt (higher) and Baix (lower) Empordà, the exceptional diversity of its terroir ensembles this region into a beautiful land of contrasts:

Bordering the Pyrenees mountain range to the north and the Mediterranean coast to the east, the Alt Empordà is located in the north-east of Catalonia. Its production stands out for the bold and full-bodied red wines, where the Garnatxa and Carinyena grapes reign supreme.

Further south, the Baix Empordà enjoys a milder climate and vast coastal plains, overlooked by the imponent Begur Massif. The production highlights in this area include the refreshing whites, characterized by their bright acidity and citrus notes.

seaside of the emporda wine region

D.O. Empordà wines

Empordà is renowned for its red wines, which thrive in the region's warm, sun-drenched climate. These grapes yield bold, full-bodied wines with rich flavors of ripe berries, spices, and earthy undertones.

For white wine enthusiasts, Empordà offers an equally exciting selection, with varieties such as Garnatxa Blanca, Macabeu, and Muscat d'Alexandria. These grapes produce crisp, refreshing wines characterized by floral aromas and a vibrant acidity that pairs perfectly with the seafood dishes of the region.

A speciality of the area is the Garnatxa de l'Empordà, a naturally sweet wine produced from the Garnatxa grape. Full-bodied, well-ripen and silky, it makes an exceptional dessert wine, only to compete with the area's iconic Moscatell.

The organic wines produced from overripe grapes, Mistelles, and the region’s small but fine sparkling wine production complete the range of wines elaborated in this D.O.

an old boat in a mediterranean fishing village

Final thoughts

The D.O. Empordà wine region is a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered. With its ancient vineyards, grape diversity, and Mediterranean climate, Empordà wines are one of the best examples from Catalonia's long winemaking tradition.

Whether you're a seasoned wine expert or a curious enthusiast, a visit to Empordà promises to delight your senses and ignite a newfound appreciation for the art of winemaking.

At Raïm e-shop we specialise in Cava sparkling wines and classic wines from the exciting Mediterranean region of Catalonia.

Shop high quality wines today and discover the taste of the Mediterranean at its best!

What is a high quality wine?

1 Aug, 2024, No comments

a glass of wine with three appetizers on a table

When tasting something we like, especially food or wine, we rarely hesitate in giving our opinion about it. We instinctively say: “It’s so tasty!”, or “This doesn’t taste too good”.

We call it “personal taste”, but the truth is that our taste is highly influenced by official quality standards that determine what the ideas of “good” and “bad” might feel like.

In this blog we’ll explore the different elements of wine quality to understand what makes a good wine actually good. From the environment where the grape has grown to the complexities and aromas that enhance your tasting experience.

Let’s dig in:

Good wines, bad wines... isn’t it all subjective?

Well, yes and no.

While getting to know new people or being on a first date, we are always eager to understand the other’s likes and dislikes. It’s a common thing, and it’s in our nature. However, no matter the company or the situation, we usually conclude the topic with the classic: “we like what we like”.

As social individuals, we’ve learned that our taste makes us different and unique. Hence why we always express it in subjective terms, that is, from our self perspective: “I like this”, “I dislike that”. From there, we start evaluating people for having a good or bad taste in things.

However, there is something else to consider beyond the categories of “good” and “bad”: the idea of quality. And whereas taste may be subjective, quality standards can be identified, understood and reasonably explained.

Sometimes we hear people saying: “I have no preference, I like everything”. But even in situations when someone with a broad taste needs to choose between 2 different options (like 2 types of wine), there is a reason why their choice coincides with the ones who do have a preference.

The reason? Simply put: quality.

Now let’s dive into the key elements that contribute to affecting wine quality.

red wine pouring into a glass

The 5 indicators of good quality in wine

When pouring wine into a glass, pay attention to these indicators before jumping into the tasting experience. This will help you to understand the quality level of the wine you’re about to consume.

1. Color

Each type of wine exhibits a specific color that matches with its characteristics. A color tonality might vary depending on the grape variety, the climate, and the amount of direct exposure to sunlight.

Aging also contributes to changing a wine color over time. For example, a young white wine will boast a less intense yellow tone than the richer, more vibrant yellow of an aged one.

2. Aroma

High quality wines exhibit intense primary aromas, that is, floral and fruity notes belonging to the grape variety and the vine, as well as mineral textures.

On the other hand, the smell and taste of wood are bad indicators of wine quality. Wood aroma is meant to balance the primary aromas, not overpower the characteristics of the grape.

3. Deposits

A proof of aging and preservation, wine deposits are a sign of good quality. Although one might think the opposite, these deposits are just the residual yeast that remains in the vessel or in the bottom of the bottle after the fermentation process is completed.

While being a proof of quality, it may be unpleasant to find deposits in the glass after pouring the wine, that’s why decanting is usually a recommended practice in wine tasting.

4. Balance, complexity and depth

A wine that exhibits harmony within its flavors and aromas is definitely a quality one.

Maybe the most logical but also the most difficult goal to achieve, balance in wine is crucial to perceive all its flavors and aromatic complexities. The sensation of harmony in the mouth is a synonym of good quality, and the condition for wanting to have another glass.

The same happens with depth and complexity, revealing different layers of flavors that add new nuances in the wine. For instance, after swirling the wine for the first time, many aromas are released in contact with the air, allowing the flavors to evolve while enhancing a tasting experience.

5. Finish and aftertaste

When the aromas and flavors of a wine persist in the mouth after the first sip, we can say that this wine has a persistent or long finish. In that sense, the longer the persistence, the higher the quality of the wine will be.

High quality wines exhibit a longer finish by default. Primary aromas and flavors linger for a while, giving way to secondary aromas that enrich the overall wine bouquet.

a white grape cluster hanging from its stem in a grapevine

The 3 factors affecting wine quality

After covering the main indicators affecting wine quality in the tasting experience, let’s briefly talk about three factors that have an important role in determining such quality:

1. Environment, climate and terroir

Climate and weather are essential factors for the growing process of a grape, affecting its ripeness, juiciness and acidity. For instance, grapes grown in warmer climates will have more sugar and tannic content than those grown in cooler climates, with higher acidity but lower tannins.

A land’s geology and terroir also play an important role in determining the quality of a grape. For example, the rocky slate soils of D.O.Q. Priorat region in Catalonia will produce more alcoholic, full bodied wines than the clay soils of coastal regions like D.O. Alella or D.O. Empordà.

2. Harvest and growing practices

In addition to the environment, harvest and production methods are other important factors to take into account when considering the quality of a wine.

While mechanized harvesting may be faster and more efficient, it can’t ensure that only the best grapes are selected as the hand-picking does. The harvesting season also plays a crucial role in the quality of a grape, contributing to its ripening stage, as well as defining the vintage of the wine.

Moreover, sustainable production methods such as organic and biodynamic farming are key to minimize the impact of pesticides and chemical fertilizers on the grapes during the growing season.

3. Vinification and aging process

The vinification process will also have a direct impact on the complexity of the resulting wine, boasting its flavor compounds and aromas depending on the added yeasts, the fermentation type, and its temperature.

Even more, whether a wine has evolved in an aging vessel for a certain time plays an important factor in developing its final bouquet. For instance, wines aged in oak will boast more nutty aromas, whereas those aged in stainless tanks or concrete vessels will develop more floral or fruity ones.

a bunch of wooden wine corks

Final thoughts

Now that you know what it takes for a wine to be actually good, it’s time to ask yourself one last question: is it worth it?

Well, that ultimately depends on you: If you consider wine as just another beverage to socialize with, its quality might not be a defining factor when purchasing one. However, if you appreciate the complexities and work that lays behind each bottle, a good quality wine it’s definitely worth it.

At Raïm we specialize in Cava and still wines from Catalonia, a stunning Mediterranean region in northeastern Spain. Wines from small family-owned wineries with decades of experience in the art of winemaking.

Shop high quality wines today and discover the Mediterranean flavor at its best!