What grapes are used for Cava?

Xarel lo is undoubtedly the grape variety with which Cava is most closely associated. The variety is considered to originate from the Penedés region of Catalonia. Xarel lo has the status of the most characteristic variety of the area thanks to its widespread use as the second most planted (26%) in the entire DO Cava. Xarel lo, together with the Macabeo and Parellada grapes, forms the classic Cava coupage. With medium-sized, loose clusters and thin skins, the grape brings structure and produces wines with body and a characteristic flavour that distinguishes Cava from other sparkling wines made using the traditional method. Xarel lo also has a high content of the antioxidant Resveratrol which, together with a low pH, makes it suitable for ageing.

Parellada

Parellada is the third most widely grown grape variety (20%) registered in the DO Cava. The variety is used in Cava above all to bring refinement and freshness. The fruit has large clusters, medium-sized grapes and thick skin; the buds burst early and the grapes ripen late. The variety has a high yield and is well adapted to the higher altitudes of Penedés. The grape produces wines that are well-structured, fruity, elegant with softness and balance. At the same time, its moderate acidity adds personality to the Cava, and potential for aging.

Chardonnay

Chardonnay's main characteristic is its versatility: this grape is able to adapt to different types of soil and conditions, and also to different production methods. The fruit is round and compact, with fine skin and uniform flesh; Chardonnay buds early and is one of the varieties that is harvested first. Although this is an international variety of French origin, Chardonnay has been approved for the production of Cava since 1986. The grape has an intense aroma and a good alcohol content; Due to their high proportion of sugar, Chardonnay grapes are usually harvested early. Its excellent acidity, together with typically "exotic" aromas, bring freshness and elegance to Cava, as well as excellent aging potential.

Grenache

Grenache is one of the most widely planted varieties in the world. This variety buds early but has a long life cycle; the bunches are medium-sized and delicately compact. The fruit, round with a fine skin, is characterized by its high sugar content and moderate acidity. In addition to its capacity to produce wines with a soft taste and very fruity aroma, Grenache is also one of the most widespread varieties for the production of Cava Rosado (rosé), which brings notes of red fruits. The Grenache plant can live for many years, and for this reason it is relatively easy to find Grenache vines of great age.

Subirat Parent

Subirat Parent or Malvasía as it is also called is increasingly used to make Dulce and Semi Dulce Cava. The clusters of this variety, which buds and ripens early, are compact and medium-sized, while the grapes themselves are large, round, thick-skinned and pink in color. The variety produces fresh, structured wines with excellent aromatic composition, rich in tropical aromas, as well as white flowers, roses, melon and herbs.

Three-legged

With large, compact bunches and thick skins, this grape variety is harvested late. In recent years, Trepat has proven to be ideal for the production of Cava Rosado (rosé), to which it gives an attractive color and balanced acidity. The characteristic aromas of this variety are red fruits such as strawberries, raspberries and cherries, along with spicy notes, producing elegant and subtle Cavas with strong personality.

Pinot Noir

Although this variety is famous all over the world, Pinot Noir is the "youngest" grape of the DO Cava. The variety's use in Cava Rosado (rosé) was approved in 1998, and since 2007 Pinot Noir has also been used in white Cava, called "Blanc de Noir". With small, compact clusters, its fruits are cylindrical with a beautiful intense violet color. These grapes have a short growth cycle and in the Mediterranean climate are always harvested early. The wine is fruity, aromatic and low in tannins, producing extremely seductive Cavas. Among the other positive characteristics associated with Pinot Noir is the ability to improve the head and keep the bubbles in the glass.