Cava breaks sales record thanks to growing domestic demand

DO Cava has reported record sales for the first nine months of this year, with a 7.65% growth in the domestic market.

In comparison, sales across the export market have remained moderate, up by just 0.33% year-on-year.

Germany remained the leading international market for Cava in the first three quarters of 2023, growing by 1.27%. It was followed in volume by Belgium (+1.95%) and the UK (+19.33%). Other notable increases in sales were also recorded among the 15 main world markets: Brazil (up a spectacular 76.29%), Poland (+33.29%), France (+17.69%), the Netherlands (+11.38%), and Sweden (+6.19%).

Javier Pagés, president of the Cava Regulatory Council, announced the figures at a press event held in Barcelona on Tuesday. Speaking at the event, Pagés highlighted the DO’s “firm commitment to increase its quality and prestige, and to contribute to creating more value throughout the sector’s chain, from the vineyard to the winery”.

The record sales follow the introduction of two new categories, Cava de Guarda, aged for a minimum of nine months and Cava de Guarda Superior, aged for more than 18 months, alongside the launch of distinct labels on bottles which allow consumers to identify the origin.

The success of Cava as part of growing demand for sparkling wines globally, with Statista predicting the market to grow by 4.93% annually by 2028.

Research from the ISWR has also found a growing informal consumption of sparkling wine has led to sizeable demand. Adam Rodgers, research director at IWSR Drinks Market Analaysis, said: “Sparkling wine is increasingly seen as suitable for casual occasions, making it a versatile option for a broad range of consumers.”

The growth follows considerable efforts made by Cava to communicate with consumers the different styles available to enjoy, and further premiumise its wine.