That's why Cava is great for barbecue

Cava might not be the first thing you think of when it comes to choosing a wine for your barbecue. But in fact, cava can be a perfect companion for meals cooked over an open fire. Just think of it as a meal that takes on an extra dimension when grilled instead of cooked in the oven or on the stove. And with its remarkable ability to complement food, Cava will do the job with ease.

Cava matches the strong taste of grilled food

Cava originates from Catalonia in Spain, and the DO Cava area is significantly warmer and sunnier than, for example, the Champagne region. This warmth creates a ripeness and richness in the wines that easily matches the strong flavor of grilled food. With the Cava's aging time of at least nine months, a depth and complexity is also achieved that helps to enhance the dining experience. You can even pair Cava with spicy meats and marinades and get a perfect combination.

Choose wine that suits the menu

However, choosing the right bottle of Cava depends on what you have on the menu. Younger Cavas work best with lighter dishes such as tapas, antipasti and salads with grilled vegetables. If you want more robust flavors such as grilled chicken, pizza (white or vegatar) or burgers, a Reserva (aged for 18 months) can do the job. But a Gran Reserva (aged for at least 30 months) will only really be a pleasure when enjoyed with a whole fish or a grilled cut of pork, veal or lamb. Seeing a vintage date on the label is typically an indication of a more complex style and will typically be an exciting choice.

Choose wine that complements the accompaniments

It's also important to think about how the Cava can complement the other ingredients on the plate. Summer vegetables like peppers, aubergines, courgettes and corn will all go well with Cava. The same goes for sno or naan bread if you want to add a little extra accompaniment.

Don't Forget the Shellfish

Don't forget the seafood either. Who can resist fresh shrimp or lobster, grilled? Especially when you're at the beach! The smoked shell of the shellfish adds a fantastic umami flavor, and the juicy flavors of the fried scallops are just delicious. Place a piece of tuna or a summer mackerel on the hot grill, and suddenly you have a perfect match for a glass of Cava - in this case I would recommend a Reserva.

Cava for appetizers and starters

And then of course there are all the little appetizers you can enjoy while you wait for the fish or meat to be cooked. Cava is fantastic with anything deep-fried, so if you have a friend who is an expert at making croquettes, for example, have him or her do the dishes. Otherwise, a simple tapas with olives, cheese and especially air-dried ham also works great. Cava is also an excellent choice for a creamy dip or a few oysters. Cava has minimal added sugar, making it an ideal match for raw and lightly cooked shellfish.

The cava can play with your ingredients

You can also enhance Cava by choosing ingredients that go perfectly with your salads and side dishes. Sweet cherries or pomegranate seeds, for example, will bring out the lovely fruity flavor in a rosé Cava, known in Spain as rosado. Cava is also wonderful with crunchy croutons and parmesan in a Caesar salad. Grilling peaches or nectarines with your chicken will bring out the delicate peach notes in Cava.