Introduction to different types of sparkling wine
Blanc de blanc
Blanc de blancs is a French term that simply means “white from white” and refers to a sparkling wine made exclusively from white grapes. In France it is typically pure Chardonnay while in Spain a blend of Xarel.lo, Macabeo and Parellada grapes is typically used.
Blanc de blanc cava made from pure Chardonnay has an unmistakable aroma of “champagne fizz” while the classic blend has a light and delicate taste with notes of green apples, quiche, citrus fruit and minerality. This wine is elegant and refreshing with a crisp acidity profile.
The refreshing and delicate nature of Blanc de blanc makes it a perfect companion to seafood, fish dishes and light salads. It also works well with milder cheeses such as goat cheese or fresh vegetable dishes. As an aperitif it can be served with light canapés, tapas or fresh shellfish such as oysters.
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White of black
Blanc de noir, translated as "white from black," is a type of sparkling wine made entirely from red grapes. This may seem surprising, as the name suggests a white wine. In reality, the white color is achieved by gently pressing the grapes and separating the juice from the skins, resulting in a light and refreshing wine.
Sparkling wines of the Blanc de Noir type tend to be full-bodied and fruity in taste due to the use of red grapes. You can expect aromas of red berries such as rhubarb, raspberries, strawberries and currants, as well as undertones of flowers and spices. The taste is often rich and complex, making it a perfect choice for those who prefer a more powerful and characterful sparkling wine.
The full-bodied and fruity character of Blanc de noir makes it suitable for pairing with heartier dishes. Try pairing it with grilled meats like lamb or pork, or even with rich cheeses like brie or camembert. It also works well with spicy Asian dishes or tapas with strong flavors.
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Rose
Rosé Cava is made by macerating the red grapes, which means macerating the must by contact with the skins, which gives color, tannin and other elements to the wine. This variation often combines the fresh and fruity elements of the red wine grapes with the crisp acidity of the white wine grapes, creating a well-balanced and versatile sparkling wine. However, the wine can in some cases be made entirely from red grapes. Typical Pinot Noir
Rosé Cava offers a soft and refreshing taste experience with aromas of red fruits such as strawberries and raspberries. It often has a subtle spicy undertone and a lively acidity that makes it a versatile companion to many dishes.
Rosé Cava is versatile and works well as an aperitif, to accompany lighter dishes such as salads, fish, seafood, fresh fruit, light pasta dishes or with dishes prepared on the BBQ.
Blend
A blend refers to a sparkling wine that uses both red and green grapes. In champagne, the classic blend consists of Chardonnay, the same with Pinot noir and Pinot meunier. In Spain, a blend consists of the classic grapes Xarel.lo, Macabeo and Parellada with the addition of either Pinot Noir, Trepat, Garnacha or Monastrell. A blend, unlike a rosé, has not had skin contact with the red grapes.
Blends range widely in expression depending on the ratio of grapes used, but in general it can be said that the addition of red grapes 'tends to give:
Flavor Complexity: Red grapes contribute additional flavor and aroma notes to the wine that complement those from white grapes. They can add fruity and floral notes as well as subtle hints of tannins and spices, enhancing the overall complexity of the Cava.
Body and Structure: Red grapes tend to have more body and structure than white grapes due to their higher tannin content. By incorporating red grapes into the blend, producers can create Cavas with a fuller flavor and greater depth.
Acid balance: Red grapes also contribute acid to the wine, which is essential for balance and freshness.
Versatility: Blending red grapes with white grapes in Cava production allows for greater versatility in winemaking. Winemakers can experiment with different grape varieties and proportions to create unique and distinctive wines.
