Cava de Guarda Superior: a category on the rise

Cava’s global renown has long rested on its accessibility – but now the Spanish sparkler’s fine wine credentials are coming to the fore, as db discovers.

With more than 150 harvests behind it, Cava stands as a symbol of Spain’s winemaking heritage – a sparkling expression of tradition and excellence. Crafted using the traditional method, the same time-honoured process that defines the world’s finest sparkling wines, Cava’s character is shaped by patience and respect for the land.

This artisanal heritage continues to guide and inspire its evolution today. Hence the current drive to elevate Cava’s reputation as a distinctive, high-quality sparkling wine.

Key to Cava’s character is the fact that its grapes are grown under a Mediterranean climate and include native Spanish varieties Macabeo, Parellada and Xarel·lo alongside Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. It also follows a distinct hierarchy – from Reserva to Gran Reserva, and now Paraje Calificado, within the premium Cava de Guarda Superior category. From this vintage, all wines in this top tier are crafted from certified organic grapes – a major advance in Cava that ensures pesticide-free viticulture. The region is already a leader in this area, selling over 32 million bottles of organic Cava in 2024.

As for taste, Patrick Schmitt MW recently sampled a selection of top Cavas. His favourites are featured in the following pages. The results show that Cava can indeed be both fine and age-worthy. Typically riper in fruit than Champagne and softer in acidity than English sparkling, top-tier Cavas are usually bone-dry thanks to low dosage. Expect apple and citrus notes, sometimes tropical hints, layered with bready, biscuity complexity from lees ageing – and, in extended-aged Guarda Superior Gran Reservas, indulgent touches of creamy coffee and hazelnut.

Read on to see Schmitt’s top 20 expressions within the Cava de Guarda Superior category, taking in a range of styles and price points.

CAVA DE GUARDA SUPERIOR RESERVA

Mascaró Brut Nature Pure 2022

• Producer: Mascaró
• Region: DO Cava
• Country: Spain
• Grape varieties: 90% Parellada, 10% Xarel·lo
• ABV: 12%
• Residual sugar: 0g/l
• Approx. retail price: £13

The palate opens with a touch of toastiness and a subtle hint of struck match, coupled to bright, juicy citrus fruit. A delicate note of biscuit adds depth and complexity, leading to a persistent, fresh finish marked by a fine, dry, chalky edge. Lingering smoky and charred nuances contribute to the wine’s layered character. Very dry and slightly firm in structure, this Cava displays a reductive, tightly wound style balanced by lees-derived richness. Poised and precise, if a touch biting due to its zero-dosage state.

Bertha Reserva Brut Nature 2022

• Producer: Bertha
• Region: DO Cava
• Country: Spain
• Grape varieties: 45% Xarel·lo, 35% Macabeo, 20% Parellada
• ABV: 11.5%
• Residual sugar: 2g/l
• Approx. retail price: £13

The nose is delicate, but the palate is expressive, with layers of citrus zest, grilled lemon and bitter orange peel, underscored by a hint of grapefruit pith. The autolytic influence is subtle, offering just a whisper of fresh bread. The finish is chalky and brisk, defined by a firm dryness and a touch of pleasant bitterness. There is a note of charcoal, with a faint rubbery character reminiscent of elastic bands. A wine of fine balance and vibrant energy, showing character and individuality.

Codorníu Ars Collecta Blanc de Blancs Reserva 2021

• Producer: Codorníu
• Region: DO Cava
• Country: Spain
• Grape varieties: 85% Chardonnay, 15% Xarel·lo & Parellada
• ABV: 11.5%
• Residual sugar: 8g/l
• Approx. retail price: £20

An appealing nose of honey and lemon leads into a palate with intense flavours of ripe citrus and a touch of white peach. Hints of grapefruit pith and bitter lemon lend precision and tension, balanced by a subtle suggestion of fresh bread. A faint, smoky-rubber nuance adds intrigue. The finish is dry, marked by a refreshing bitterness that enhances its freshness. Firm and ageworthy, yet underpinned by a core of soft, ripe fruit, this wine shows both vitality and depth.

DV No. 23 Expression Brut Reserva 2021

• Producer: Dominio de la Vega
• Region: DO Cava
• Country: Spain
• Grape varieties: Macabeo, Xarel·lo
• ABV: 12.5%
• Residual sugar: 3g/l
• Approx. retail price: £27

A captivating nose evokes fine Champagne, with aromas of toasted brioche, tangerine and honey. The palate mirrors this refinement, combining toasty, lees-driven depth with a reductive, smoky edge. Flavours of charred bread, ripe orange and grapefruit pith mingle with hints of dried fruit and bright citrus. Bone-dry yet beautifully balanced, it finishes long and chalky, with a distinctive bitter lemon freshness that adds lift and precision. A serious, complex Cava of real class and presence – elegant, intense and unmistakably reminiscent of great Champagne.

Vilarnau Rosé Delicat 2022

• Producer: Vilarnau
• Region: DO Cava
• Country: Spain
• Grape varieties: 85% Garnacha, 15% Pinot Noir
• ABV: 12%
• Residual sugar: 8g/l
• Approx. retail price: £12

A pretty, pale peach-coloured Cava rosado with enticing aromas of rosehips, rhubarb and crushed strawberries. In the mouth there’s an initial hit of jammy red fruit, mixed with fresh apple and citrus, then a background note of brown bread. The finish is chalky and fairy dry, with lingering note of sweet blood orange and crunchy cranberry too, then some mouthwatering bitter grapefruit pith. Ripe, fruity, but refreshing too.

CAVA DE GUARDA SUPERIOR GRAN RESERVA

Jané & Santacana Gran Reserva Brut Nature Black Label 2020

• Producer: Jané & Santacana
• Region: DO Cava
• Country: Spain
• Grape varieties: Xarel·lo, Macabeo, Parellada
• ABV: 11.75%
• Residual sugar: 2.7g/l
• Approx. retail price: £10

A strikingly dry and energetic Cava showing depth and freshness in equal measure. The palate opens with a fine, persistent mousse and layers of bitter citrus and ripe apple, before broadening into hints of brioche and creamy coffee. A touch of chalk and subtle woodiness lend savoury tension, while the finish is bone dry, mouthwatering and long. Mature yet vibrant – a beautifully poised, complex fizz.

Blancher Gran Reserva Nature 2019

• Producer: Blancher Capdevila Pujol
• Region: DO Cava
• Country: Spain
• Grape varieties: Macabeo, Xarel·lo, Parellada
• ABV: 11.5%
• Residual sugar: 3.9g/l
• Approx. retail price: £12

Pale white-gold in the glass – suggesting maturity – this Gran Reserva delivers a zesty, nutty profile marked by coffee, hazelnut and a trace of honey-covered brown bread. Dried apple and bitter grapefruit pith bring lift and freshness, underpinned by a chalky mineral edge. Super-dry and invigorating, although there’s a cappuccino-like creamy richness at its core. Wonderfully layered, if slightly austere on the finish, ensuring crisp refreshment.

Cava Montargull Brut Nature Gran Reserva Xarel-lo Barrica 2021

• Producer: Cava Miquel Pons
• Region: DO Cava
• Country: Spain
• Grape varieties: 80% Xarel·lo, 20% Macabeo
• ABV: 11.5%
• Residual sugar: 1g/l
• Approx. retail price: £15

A fascinating wine, with aromas of honey, orange peel and beeswax recalling a lightly botrytised white. The palate mirrors the nose, with notes of tangerine and blood orange, creamy coffee, toast and subtle hazelnut. A firm, chalk-dry texture frames the bone-dry finish. Nutty, woody and finely phenolic, yet lively and refreshing, this Cava offers personality in spades and a distinctive, layered style.

Giró Ribot Uma Brut Gran Reserva 2021

• Producer: Giró Ribot
• Region: DO Cava
• Country: Spain
• Grape varieties: 40% Xarel·lo, 40% Chardonnay, 20% Pinot Noir
• ABV: 11.5%
• Residual sugar: 6g/l
• Approx. retail price: £14

Hints of honeyed dried fruit and peach mark the nose, leading to a ripe, rich palate of candied orange and dried apple. Subtle autolytic tones of hazelnut and toast add depth, while chalky minerality and a touch of grapefruit pith bring freshness. Fine mousse, balanced richness and a lingering finish complete this quietly confident, graceful Gran Reserva.

Roger Goulart Gran Reserva Josep Valls 2020

• Producer: Roger Goulart
• Region: DO Cava
• Country: Spain
• Grape varieties: 30% Xarel·lo, 20% Macabeo, 20% Parellada, 15% Pinot Noir, 15% Chardonnay
• ABV: 12%
• Residual sugar: 4g/l
• Approx. retail price: £21
• A clean, citrus-driven nose introduces a palate that balances zesty freshness with creamy richness. Flavours of pineapple, vanilla cream and orange peel unfold over a dry, persistent finish with a touch of grapefruit bitterness. Focused, elegant and energetic, this is a refined, drinkable Cava with both brightness and depth. A find.

Alta Alella Laietà 2020

• Producer: Alta Alella
• Region: DO Cava
• Country: Spain
• Grape varieties: Xarel·lo, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir
• ABV: 12%
• Residual sugar: 0g/l
• Approx. retail price: £28

Beautifully complex and lees-driven, this Cava shows notes of toast, grilled nuts and struck match over dried apple and bitter lemon. The smoky, reductive edge brings a Champagne-like sophistication, while the bone-dry palate remains zesty, crisp and long. A wine of tension and finesse, with a fine-boned structure and nutty depth. Among the most compelling of the set. But be warned: being zero-dosage, the fizz does come to a somewhat biting finish.

Carpe Brut Nature Gran Reserva 2019

• Producer: Mastinell
• Region: DO Cava
• Country: Spain
• Grape varieties: Chardonnay, Xarel·lo, Macabeo, Parellada
• ABV: 12%
• Residual sugar: 2.5g/l
• Approx. retail price: £23

A creamy, zesty style with notes of stewed apple, dried stone fruit and a hint of nuttiness. The finish is bone-dry, showing sour apple bite and a touch of woodiness. Complex and grippy, with a phenolic edge that adds texture and freshness. Aged and characterful, though firmly in the dry, savoury camp.

Avinyó Gran Reserva La Ticota 2017

• Producer: Avinyó
• Region: DO Cava
• Country: Spain
• Grape variety: 100% Xarel·lo
• ABV: 12%
• Residual sugar: 5.4g/l
• Approx. retail price: £22

A rich, mature style showing buttery aromas with hints of grilled lemon and chalk dust. The palate balances aged depth and zesty citrus lift, carrying notes of hazelnut and fireplace smoke. Bone-dry, tense and complex, with a chalky finish and a lingering, savoury bite. For lovers of structured, evolved Cava with serious intent.

Blanca Cusiné 2019

• Producer: Parés Baltà
• Region: DO Cava
• Country: Spain
• Grape varieties: 81% Xarel·lo, 10% Pinot Noir, 9% Chardonnay
• ABV: 12.5%
• Residual sugar: 1.7g/l
• Approx. retail price: £25

Deep lemon-gold in colour, this outstanding Cava opens with aromas of grilled nuts, smoke and toasted marshmallow. The palate is generous and layered, offering pineapple, dried mango and fresh apple, with creamy richness and bright lemon acidity. The finish is bone-dry, chalky and long, with a cappuccino note adding warmth and depth. A fine, fruit-driven yet complex Cava that rivals many high-end blanc de blancs Champagnes.

Pere Ventura Vintage 2017

• Producer: Pere Ventura
• Region: DO Cava
• Country: Spain
• Grape varieties: 60% Xarel·lo, 40% Chardonnay
• ABV: 12%
• Residual sugar: 4.5g/l
• Approx. retail price: £32

A deeply aged, oxidative style showing bruised apple, beeswax and antique furniture. The palate continues the theme with nutty, honeyed notes and a creamy mousse. Despite its oxidative tone, it remains fresh, layered and long, echoing the best mature Champagnes. Bone-dry, complex and full of character – contemplative, yet also thoroughly drinkable.

Vallformosa 150 Gran Reserva 2020

• Producer: Vallformosa
• Region: DO Cava
• Country: Spain
• Grape variety: 100% Xarel·lo
• ABV: 12%
• Residual sugar: 6.5g/l
• pprox. retail price: £45

Clean and ripe, this generous Cava combines autolytic depth with ripe orchard and stone fruit. Pineapple, peach and dried apricot mingle with notes of vanilla cream, toast and cappuccino. Bone-dry but not severe, it balances richness with a bitter lemon freshness that keeps you reaching for another glass. A crowd-pleaser with complexity and polish. Highly recommended.

Núria Claverol Homenatge 2016

• Producer: Bodegues Sumarroca
• Region: DO Cava
• Country: Spain
• Grape variety: 100% Xarel·lo
• ABV: 12%
• Residual sugar: 2g/l
• Approx. retail price: £62

Toasty and faintly smoky on the nose, with hints of grilled nuts and a subtle note of elastic band. The palate is taut and serious, showing citrus, apple and pear alongside creamy coffee and honeyed notes. Chalky, dry and structured, with firm acidity and impressive length. A wine of precision and poise, evolving beautifully in the glass. And, while a touch biting, it’s hard not to drink.

Tharsys X Gran Reserva 2019

• Producer: Pago de Tharsys
• Region: DO Cava
• Country: Spain
• Grape varieties: 100% Xarel·lo
• ABV: 12%
• Residual sugar: <3g/l
• Approx. retail price: £50

Aged and complex, with smoky toast, beeswax and a touch of old furniture on the nose. The palate brings salty, peppery intrigue and crisp apple bite, carried by firm bubbles and a dry, chalky finish. Slightly austere but full of personality – a Cava of texture, savoury depth and lingering freshness.

Tantum Ergo Exclusive (Magnum) 2014

• Producer: Bodegas Hispanosuizas
• Region: DO Cava
• Country: Spain
• Grape varieties: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir
• ABV: 12%
• Residual sugar: <8g/l
• Approx. retail price: £150

Youthful and energetic, with the freshness one expects from magnum ageing. Crisp apple and lemon zest are joined by subtle toast, chalk and tangerine, with a flicker of struck match. Bone-dry, lively and persistent, showing frothy mousse and elegant creaminess. A little woody on the finish, but otherwise a brilliant, vigorous Cava of drive and complexity.

CAVA DE GUARDA SUPERIOR PARAJE CALIFICADO

Vinyes de Can Sala 2015

• Producer: Ferrer Wines
• Region: DO Cava
• Country: Spain
• Grape varieties: Xarel·lo, Parellada
• ABV: 12.5%
• Residual sugar: <3g/l
• Approx. retail price: £40

An extraordinary, mature Cava, layered with aromas of roasted coffee, grilled nuts, brown sugar and smoke. The palate is deeply savoury, combining caramelised richness with stewed apple, toffee and grilled lemon. Bone-dry yet mouth-filling, with notes of charcoal and coffee bean on the long finish. Profoundly aged, complex and captivating – a benchmark for serious Cava, or indeed sparkling wine.