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
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