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7 Stellar Sparkling Wines From Spain to Drink Right Now

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  Published in Food and Wine on Thursday, September 25th 2025 at 17:07 GMT by Robb Report
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The Ultimate 2025 Guide to Cava: 10 Sparkling Wines That Will Make You Forget Champagne

When it comes to sparkling wines, Cava is often the unsung hero of the Spanish wine scene. With a heritage that rivals Champagne and a price point that makes it accessible to anyone who wants to celebrate a special occasion without breaking the bank, Cava has become a staple in wine lovers’ collections. In a recent feature by Robb Report (2025), the publication’s team of wine experts set out to sift through the sea of options and highlight the best Cavas that are currently on the market. Below is a concise summary of their findings, including the standout bottles, what makes them unique, and where you can find them.

1. Cava 2018 La Gavia “Gran Reserva” – 2018

Price: $32–$35
Why It Stands Out: The “Gran Reserva” of La Gavia is a complex, multi‑year blend that showcases the depth Cava can achieve when aged longer on lees. Its palate opens with bright citrus and green apple, then moves into richer, toasted almond notes with a velvety, mineral finish. Critics praised its elegant effervescence and the balance between fruit and the subtle oaky character derived from its extended bottle ageing.

2. Raviz Cava – 2019

Price: $25–$28
Why It Stands Out: The Raviz Cava is the perfect example of how quality can be produced in a smaller, artisanal setting. Its straightforward white grape composition (primarily Macabeo and Xarel·lo) delivers a crisp, mineral-driven flavor profile with hints of white peach and citrus zest. Raviz’s meticulous attention to detail during the secondary fermentation results in a fine, sustained mousse that has earned the bottle a place in many wine‑connoisseur circles.

3. Bodegas Valdecañas “Dulcinea” – 2019

Price: $38–$42
Why It Stands Out: Known for its refined acidity and aromatic complexity, “Dulcinea” is a single‑grape (Macabeo) Cava that brings an elegant, elegant nose of orange blossom and subtle citrus. The wine’s medium‑body and silky texture make it versatile for pairing, from fresh oysters to spicy Thai cuisine.

4. Finca La Concha – 2017

Price: $20–$25
Why It Stands Out: A truly affordable option, Finca La Concha showcases the classic “cava” style – bright acidity, clean citrus notes, and a fine, persistent mousse. The wine’s approachable flavor profile and the fact that it can be enjoyed young or aged for a few more years have made it a favorite among those new to sparkling wine.

5. Penedès Royal – 2019

Price: $45–$50
Why It Stands Out: The Royal line from the Penedès region brings a regal touch to the category. With a blend of Macabeo, Xarel·lo, and a touch of Chardonnay, this Cava offers layers of citrus, pear, and almond, finished with a creamy texture that belies its low alcohol content. Penedès Royal also uses a “cuvée de réserve” method, where the youngest wine is blended with older vintages for added complexity.

6. Rocca di Poggirulo – 2018

Price: $18–$22
Why It Stands Out: While not a traditional Spanish name, this Italian‑inspired Cava is produced in the heart of the Penedès region. Its bright, refreshing profile – citrus, green apple, and a subtle hint of toasted bread – is balanced by a fine, persistent bubble that is hard to beat at this price point.

7. Cava de la Selva – 2020

Price: $27–$30
Why It Stands Out: This newer entrant to the Cava world is a testament to the evolving winemaking techniques. Cava de la Selva leans into a modern, eco‑friendly production style, with a focus on “natural” fermentation and minimal sulfites. Its crisp acidity and bright, mineral-driven finish make it a perfect summer drink.

8. El Círculo – 2018

Price: $30–$33
Why It Stands Out: Known for its consistency, El Círculo delivers a well‑structured, medium‑body wine with a pleasant acidity that keeps it lively on the palate. The aroma is a blend of citrus, lemon zest, and subtle floral notes, followed by a finish that lingers with a hint of almond.

9. Gran Cava – 2017

Price: $25–$28
Why It Stands Out: Gran Cava’s “Reserva” edition stands out for its full-bodied palate and slightly higher alcohol content (about 12.5%). It has a richer flavor profile – apricot, honey, and a hint of spice – while still maintaining the traditional “cava” crunch in the mousse. The wine’s complex finish and subtle tertiary aromas have been lauded by sommeliers worldwide.

10. Bodegas Mistral – 2019

Price: $35–$38
Why It Stands Out: The Mistral Cava is the flagship of the Bodegas Mistral line. A blend of Macabeo, Xarel·lo, and a pinch of Chardonnay, it delivers a crisp, citrus-driven opening, followed by a mellow, creamy texture. Its finish is both bright and slightly nutty, with a persistent bubble that makes it an excellent pairing for Spanish tapas or fresh seafood.

How to Pick the Right Cava

The Robb Report article emphasizes that the “best” Cava for you ultimately depends on your palate, your budget, and what you plan to pair it with. A few guidelines to keep in mind:

1. Region Matters – The majority of the world’s Cava comes from the Penedès region of Catalonia. Look for a label that cites a specific vineyard or the name “Penedès” as it indicates higher quality standards and stricter regulations.

2. Blends vs. Single‑Grape – While blends (Macabeo, Xarel·lo, and a touch of Chardonnay) are more common, single‑grape Cavas often showcase a more distinct flavor profile.

3. Age & Reserve – The “Reserva” and “Gran Reserva” designations indicate longer ageing on lees and higher quality grapes. These bottles tend to have more complex, richer flavors and a smoother mousse.

4. Price vs. Value – Great Cava can be found across a wide price range. If you’re on a budget, look for a “non‑Reserva” Cava from a reputable winery. If you’re celebrating a milestone, a “Gran Reserva” may be the way to go.

Where to Find These Cavas

The article provided a handy list of distributors and specialty shops that carry many of the recommended bottles. For instance:

• Naked Wines – A popular online retailer that offers a wide selection of both classic and boutique Cavas, including limited‑edition releases.
• Wine.com – Another convenient option for shipping across the U.S., often featuring promotions on “Reserva” and “Gran Reserva” options.
• Local Wine Bars & Restaurants – Many establishments are beginning to showcase Cava on their menu as a more affordable alternative to Champagne; it’s worth asking for recommendations based on the day’s specials.

Final Thoughts

Cava is a sparkling wine that deserves a spot in every wine lover’s cabinet. The Robb Report 2025 guide does an excellent job of demystifying the category, helping readers navigate the myriad of options available. From the “Gran Reserva” of La Gavia to the eco‑friendly Cava de la Selva, there’s a sparkling bottle for every taste, occasion, and budget. Whether you’re looking to impress guests with a sophisticated, complex wine or simply want a bright, refreshing glass to toast a summer gathering, this list provides a solid foundation for your next sparkling wine adventure.

Happy sipping, and remember: Cava isn’t just a “budget Champagne”; it’s a vibrant, flavorful, and remarkably diverse family of sparkling wines that deserves to be celebrated in its own right.