Serving and Storing

Keep to enjoy later

Ideal conditions for storing bottles of Cava

Storing Cava correctly at home is extremely important, in order to ensure that you can fully appreciate the wine when tasting it later.

Each bottle has been stored in a quiet space under perfect conditions for a minimum of 9 months; after this period of time, it is ready to be uncorked and enjoyed. However if you want to wait longer, you need to know how best to keep the Cava. Apart from the debate between experts about whether the bottle should be kept in a horizontal or vertical position, the temperature and humidity of the storage location should also be considered.

Both these factors need to be kept consistent, ideally 14ºC with 50% humidity; the latter is necessary to ensure the correct hydration of the cork. In addition, contact with light, noise and vibrations should also be avoided.

All these recommendations also depend on how long the bottle will be stored. If the Cava will be consumed within a short space of time, then the bottle should be stored upright and close at hand, at a lower temperature of about 8ºC (see section below on serving temperatures).

That magic moment of popping the cork...

How to open a bottle of Cava correctly

Uncorking a bottle of Cava should always be synonymous with joy and celebration. If this operation is done correctly, you will avoid wasting any of the precious wine, and will preserve all the characteristics that make it so special. Follow these simple instructions in order to uncork your bottle of Cava elegantly and efficiently.

Remove the foil cap.
Tilt the bottle at about 45º (upwards).
Loosen the wire cage without removing it.
Hold your thumb over the upper part of the wire cage, on top of the cork, to prevent it from popping out unexpectedly.
Twist the bottle from its base (never by the neck), while holding onto the cork; the gradual movement will make the cork come out easily and effortlessly.
Hold the bottle at a slight angle so that the pressure inside stabilises and the foam is not wasted. Now you’re ready to pour the Cava.

… and cheers!

How to serve Cava

What is the ideal glass for serving Cava?

The type of glass recommended by most tasting experts is a fine crystal tulip glass. Its narrow lower section is ideal for retaining and enjoying the Cava bubbles, while the width of the upper part lets you fully appreciate the aromas. With the richness of Cava, and its many different styles and categories, choosing your glass offers a further opportunity to enjoy the diversity of this wine.

The basic rule is, if in doubt, use a tulip glass. However, when drinking a bottle of aged Cava, in order to have a fuller appreciation of its aromatic complexity and nuances, you can choose a wider glass. As always, personal taste is the best guide for making your choice.

Suggestions:

Tulip glasses are the best for enjoying Cava’s aromatic expression.
Flute glasses always bring out the sensation of acidity and freshness.
Wide glasses retain gas for a shorter time, so avoid them if you want the bubbles to stay in the Cava while you’re drinking it.

What is the ideal serving temperature?

Everyone knows that Cavas should be consumed chilled. Although this is a drink which tolerates low temperatures, care must be taken in order to enjoy its full complexity.

Cava de Guarda, which has the shortest aging time, is served coldest, at around 8ºC, to highlight its vibrancy and freshness.

In the case of Reserva and Gran Reserva, the serving temperature increases to about 10ºC. This is to improve enjoyment of the aromas: the higher the temperature, the more the bouquet can be appreciated.

Additionally, Cava can be served in an ice-bucket with water and ice, so that the bottle is completely immersed, remaining chilled until the last glass.