Codorníu is the world’s oldest and second-largest producer of bottle-fermented sparkling wine, known as cava, made by the traditional champagne method and it was founded in Barcelona, Spain in 1551. I visit the area every year and have been going for there for 20 years (I’m off there again next month). We visited Sant Sadurní d’Anoia, the heartland of cava and pulled in to the Frexinet car park. They pretty much told us to sod off, so we drove down the road to  Codorníu – where we were welcomed & given a tour and a tasting. This has influenced my opinions about both wines…

Tasting notes: Like Champagne, Cava is made according to the Traditional Method. The second fermentation, to produce bubbles and the unique flavour, takes place in this bottle. Fresh, crisp,elegant sparkling wine with attractive flavours of citrus and apple. Fine, persistent mousse.

Wine Colour – White
Price – £9.99
Where do I get it from? Waitrose
Current Vintage – N/V
Producer – Codorníu
Grape – Macabeo, Xarel.lo and Parellada
Region/Country – Sant Sadurní d’Anoia/Spain
Points – 87

Food Pairing: A good aperitif, goes well with nibbles or canapés.