Cava and Oysters - a taste journey in perfect harmony
In the culinary world, there are pairings that go beyond the ordinary, awakening our taste buds in unexpected ways. One such combination is the classic alliance between cava and oysters. This sublime duet of bubbles and the delicacies of the sea is not only a feast for the palate, but also a fascination for researchers at the University of Copenhagen, who in 2020 delved into the mystery behind this classic culinary symphony in a study published in the renowned journal “Nature”.(1)
According to researchers from the Department of Food Science at the University of Copenhagen, the key to this culinary ecstasy lies in the umami taste. Umami, often referred to as the fifth basic taste, is found in certain types of oysters and selected cavas. Dead yeast cells in cava contribute a characteristic umami taste, just as the oyster's muscles also contain this exquisite flavor nuance. Many people traditionally associate umami with the taste of meat. But the researchers discovered that it is also found in both oysters and cava,
The interesting aspect of the study is the discovery of the so-called 'umami synergy,' which occurs when cava and oysters are enjoyed together. The umami level in cava may not be immediately noticeable on its own, but when combined with oysters, a unique and irresistible taste experience is created.
According to researchers, we humans are genetically coded to crave umami, as it is a sign that the food is rich in protein. The meeting between cava and oysters creates a synergistic effect that not only enhances the umami taste, but also elevates the culinary experience to new heights.
"Cava further contributes to the overall impression with its acidity and bubbles," the researchers explain. They also point out that some cavas contain higher concentrations of umami flavor than others, and that bottle aging with the dead yeast cells plays a crucial role here.
Thus, the classic combination of cava and oysters is not just a coincidence of flavor profiles, but a carefully orchestrated symphony of science and gastronomy. It is a journey through the wondrous world of taste buds, where bubbly cava and oysters unite in a heavenly dance of umami and elegance. A taste journey that awakens our senses and allows us to experience the joy of the perfect culinary symbiosis.
Below you can find examples of cavas that contain high concentrations of umami due to their aging and will therefore pair wonderfully with oysters no matter how they are served:
Nodal - Gran Reserva Brut Nature
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Gran Reserva Vintage Brut Nature
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Ortus - Gran Reserva Brut Nature
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