In 2023, Cava surged to new heights, reaching a historic milestone of 252 million bottles sold worldwide, marking a 1.09% year-on-year growth.
This performance was bolstered by strong domestic sales in Spain, which rose by 4.02%, and an exceptional 24.59% increase in organic Cava sales, underscoring a clear consumer shift toward sustainability and premium quality.
Domestic Market: A Pillar of Growth
The Spanish market played a pivotal role in achieving this record. Domestic consumption not only grew in volume but also in value, with premium Cavas increasingly preferred by consumers. According to Javier Pagés, President of the DO Cava Regulatory Council, Cava’s rising popularity in its home country helped offset modest international declines and inflation-driven slowdowns across major export destinations.
Pagés stated, “Despite economic and geopolitical turbulence, our products continue to grow domestically while global competitors face declines. This reinforces Cava’s strength and resilience.”
International Markets: Mixed Results, with Bright Spots
- Germany led Cava exports, importing 31.1 million bottles, up 4.14%.
- Belgium saw a 5.44% increase in Cava imports, reaching 22 million bottles.
- The UK, even post-Brexit, showed 5.38% growth with 16.8 million bottles.
- Brazil was the standout performer, with a staggering 75.82% increase, though from a lower base of 1.9 million bottles.
- The United States, while remaining the second-largest market at 21.6 million bottles, experienced a 13.48% decline due to economic pressures.
Organic Cava: Sustainability Meets Success
The most compelling narrative of 2023 was the rapid rise of organic Cavas. Reflecting a strategic focus by DO Cava on sustainability and premium quality, organic-certified sales jumped 24.59%, reaching 32.3 million bottles. This boom contrasts with a 1.65% decline in conventional Cava sales, indicating a clear pivot in consumer preference.
Pagés emphasized that the 2025 regulation, which mandates 100% organic production for all Cava de Guarda Superior, is already driving market transformation. These wines—longer aged and sourced from certified vineyards—are now setting the standard for premium Spanish sparkling wines.
Premium Segments and Innovation
Other emerging trends included:
- Rosé Cava sales rose by 3.31%, hitting 23.5 million bottles, reflecting growing global demand.
- The launch of Cava de Guarda Superior wines under the new 18-month minimum aging regulation added value to the premium segment.
- The category of Elaborador Integral—Cava producers that oversee the entire winemaking process—also gained traction, reinforcing quality assurance and brand identity.
Looking Forward
While challenges remain—particularly concerning the effects of drought—Javier Pagés remains optimistic: “If we continue to work together across the value chain, the future of Cava is rich with potential.” His remarks reflect a confident outlook based on the sector’s adaptability, commitment to sustainability, and alignment with premiumization trends.
Source: Vinetur