The Spanish Cava Producers Association (AECAVA) has introduced a new strategic document titled “The 20 Keys that Define the Essence of Cava,” aimed at strengthening the sector’s identity and consolidating its position in both domestic and international markets.
Presented on Monday, the document serves as a communication tool outlining the fundamental values that shape Cava’s heritage, quality, and global relevance.
During the presentation, Joaquim Tosas, president of AECAVA, highlighted that the initiative seeks to offer clarity and coherence when communicating what Cava represents. According to Tosas, the publication captures the essence behind every bottle—its connection to the land, its historical journey, and its future potential.
A Heritage Rooted in Over 150 Years of Tradition
The document emphasises that Cava is deeply intertwined with the culture and history of its region. With a tradition spanning more than 150 years, Cava production has become a defining feature of the Penedès and Comtats de Barcelona landscapes.
Indigenous grape varieties—Xarel·lo, Macabeo, and Parellada—are presented as key ambassadors of Mediterranean viticulture. These varieties, central to the Cava identity, reflect the region’s climate and terroir, forming the backbone of a sparkling wine with strong cultural and geographic authenticity.
A Landscape That Shapes Identity
AECAVA underscores the significance of the land in shaping the character of Cava. More than 25,000 hectares of vineyards contribute to the visual, environmental, and economic fabric of the region. Viticulture plays a crucial role in maintaining rural landscapes, supporting local economies, and preserving agricultural traditions.
Thanks to the diversity within the Cava Designation of Origin, the sector offers a broad range of styles—from young, fresh Cavas to long-aged, complex cuvées—allowing consumers to explore a wide spectrum of expressions.
Quality Assurance and the Traditional Method
The document includes a dedicated section on the rigorous quality controls that govern Cava production. The official certification system ensures traceability and origin, while reinforcing consumer confidence.
A central pillar of Cava’s identity remains the traditional method, in which the second fermentation takes place in the bottle. This process, shared with leading global sparkling wines, remains a hallmark of Cava’s artisanal roots and commitment to craftsmanship.
AECAVA also highlights two key quality classifications:
- Cava de Guarda Superior – denoting longer ageing periods and elevated quality standards.
- Elaborador Integral – a seal identifying wineries that perform the entire production process in-house, from grape pressing to bottling.
Economic Impact and Sector Collaboration
Cava represents a cornerstone of the Catalan wine industry. According to AECAVA, the sparkling wine accounts for:
-
60% of all grapes under Protected Designation of Origin (PDO)
-
75% of wine produced in Catalonia
The sector supports thousands of winegrowers and workers. Collaboration between small family wineries and large producers remains essential to maintaining competitiveness and ensuring consistent quality across the region.
Sustainability as a Strategic Priority
AECAVA positions sustainability as a defining feature of Cava’s modern identity. Starting this year, all Cavas in the Guarda Superior category will be 100% organic, reflecting the sector’s commitment to environmental responsibility and alignment with consumer expectations for sustainable products.
This transition represents a significant milestone for the region and positions Cava as a leader in organic sparkling wine production.
A Global Ambassador of Mediterranean Culture
Cava maintains a strong presence on international markets. According to AECAVA:
- It is available in more than 150 countries
- It represents 35% of all Spanish DO wine exports
The association highlights Cava’s gastronomic versatility and its suitability for diverse consumption occasions as key factors contributing to its global appeal. AECAVA positions Cava not only as a high-quality sparkling wine but also as a cultural ambassador of Mediterranean lifestyle and craftsmanship.
Source: Vinetur