Sparkling Wines Cava Conde de Haro - Brut Reserva - 2020

Viniou Reviews

Conde de Haro Cuvée Brut Reserva 2020 is a sparkling white wine from the renowned Cava DO in Catalonia, Spain. As a Brut Reserva, it has undergone a minimum ageing of 15 months on lees in the bottle, thanks to the traditional method (método tradicional), which is also used for Champagne. The blend typically features the classic Cava grape varieties, such as Macabeo, Xarel·lo, and Parellada, which together create a vibrant and structured wine with crisp acidity, fine bubbles, and notes of green apple, citrus zest, white flowers, and roasted almonds. The 2020 vintage brings freshness and balance, allowing the autolytic nuances from the ageing to harmoniously blend with fresh fruit character.

Catalonia, and especially the Penedès region where most Cava is produced, benefits from a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters, as well as cooling sea breezes from the nearby Mediterranean Sea. The diverse soils—limestone, clay, and some sandy parcels—provide excellent drainage and contribute to the finesse and minerality found in well-made Cavas. The history of Cava dates back to the late 19th century, inspired by Champagne, but uniquely Spanish in character and terroir. The combination of traditional techniques and indigenous grape varieties ensures that Cava stands out among the world’s great sparkling wines.

Conde de Haro Brut Reserva 2020 is especially versatile at the table. It will shine as an aperitif, paired with traditional Catalan tapas such as jamón ibérico, seafood croquettes, or pan con tomate. Its vibrant acidity and refined bubbles cut through the richness of fried calamari or seafood paella. For a regional match, consider pairing it with escalivada (grilled Mediterranean vegetables) or fideuà (a noodle paella with shellfish). The wine also complements sushi, fresh oysters, and delicate Asian dishes thanks to its saline edge and freshness.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this Cava well chilled, ideally between 6-8°C, in flutes or white wine glasses to express both its aromatic complexity and the finesse of its mousse. To appreciate its depth and creaminess, consider letting the wine open for a few moments in the glass.