Limited Edition Codorníu Brut NV

Cava, Spain's answer to Champagne is made by the same traditional method of secondary fermentation in bottle, but not from the same grape varieties.

It has a broadly similar flavour profile to Champagne but does not command the same prices, so can be something of a budget alternative when you just need something fizzy, sharp and palatable. And plenty of it.

Codorníu (aka Bodegas y Viñedos Codorníu Raventós, founded in 1551) is one of the big names for Cava and has recently released a "limited edition label", inspired by the work of Gaudi, for Mother's Day, Easter and toasting the arrival of spring generally.

Sandy yellow in the glass, it has a restrained nose; on the palate there is pleasing white pear and cox's apple fruit.

The acidity is citrussy, mouthfilling and pleasantly sharp with a touch of minerally persistence that develops and lingers on the finish.

Overall, it is a decent, basic, good-value fizz with nothing not to like; in 2012 Codorníu won the International Wine Challenge Cava Trophy and the Great Value Champion Sparkling Trophy.

At another time of year, it will make a good picnic wine. For now, drink as an aperitif or allow the acidity to cut through tapas-style starters such as mozzarella, smoked salmon, chorizo or anchovies and olives.

£8.99 from Tesco; provided for review.

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Links
Codorníu - website, twitter