What is Spanish Sparkling Wine Called?

Sparkling wine is an alcoholic beverage made from fermented grapes. The fermentation process creates carbon dioxide bubbles, giving the drink its distinct and attractive sparkling appearance. Spanish sparkling wines are top-rated among wine consumers worldwide, with many exported from the country. This article will explore what Spanish sparkling wine is called and why it is a popular and unique beverage.

Varieties of Spanish Sparkling Wine

The term "sparkling wine" is broad and encompasses many different varieties of wine. Cava is the most famous Spanish sparkling wine, made from the native Spanish grape varieties Macabeo, Xarello, and Parellada. Cava is produced mainly in the Catalonia region and is aged in a bottle for at least nine months, sometimes up to 15 or 20 months before it is ready for consumption.

Other varieties of Spanish sparkling wine include Freixenet, Segura Viudas, and Juvé & Camps. Freixenet is a bright, full-bodied sparkling wine made primarily from the Macabeo and Parellada grape varieties. It is noted for its intense flavor and crisp, refreshing taste. Segura Viudas is a famous Spanish sparkling wine from the Macabeo, Xarello, and Chardonnay grape varieties. Juvé & Camps is a sparkling rose made from the Macabeo and Garnacha grape varieties and has a vibrant flavor with notes of strawberry and raspberry.

The Process of Making Spanish Sparkling Wine

The process of making Spanish sparkling wine is similar to other countries. The main difference is in the secondary fermentation, which occurs in the bottle in Spain, as opposed to in a vat in other countries.

To create Spanish sparkling wine, the winemaker will first harvest and press the grapes to extract the juice and flavor. The liquid is then cooled and inoculated with yeast, where it undergoes primary fermentation. Following primary fermentation, the wine is bottle-fermented through the secondary fermentation process.

The winemaker will decide how long the Spanish sparkling wine should be aged. The aging process determines the flavor and finish of the wine. The longer the Spanish sparkling wine is aged, the greater the complexity and character of the flavor will be.

Why Is Spanish Sparkling Wine So Popular?

Spanish sparkling wine has become increasingly popular due to its unique flavor and quality. Cava is the most celebrated variety of Spanish sparkling wine, a favorite among wine connoisseurs for many years. This type of sparkling wine is known for its rich flavor, entire body, and unique character.

Besides its appealing flavor profile, Spanish sparkling wines are easy to find. Some of the more popular brands of Spanish sparkling wine are Freixenet, Segura Viudas, and Juvé & Camps; most significant retailers carry these varieties. This availability makes it much easier to enjoy Spanish sparkling wine, even for those living outside Spain.

Spanish sparkling wines are also famous because of their affordability. Sparkling wines made in Spain can usually be found at much lower prices than other popular sparkling wine varieties, making it easier for everyone to enjoy a high-quality glass of bubbly.

The Benefits of Drinking Spanish Sparkling Wine

Besides its unique flavor profile and affordability, Spanish sparkling wine has many health benefits. One benefit of drinking sparkling wine is that it is low in calories and contains less sugar content than other types of wine. This makes Spanish sparkling wine a good choice for those looking for a beverage that won’t add additional calories to their daily consumption.

Spanish sparkling wine is also high in antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation in the body and protect against several diseases. The antioxidants in this type of wine are also known to promote heart health. Furthermore, Spanish sparkling wine is a good source of potassium and magnesium, both essential for maintaining healthy nerve and muscle function.

How to Choose the Right Spanish Sparkling Wine

Knowing what kind you’re looking for is essential when choosing a Spanish sparkling wine. Cava is the most famous Spanish sparkling wine, but other varieties exist, like Freixenet, Segura Viudas, and Juvé & Camps. Depending on your taste preferences and budget, you’ll have to determine which type of Spanish sparkling wine you want.

It’s also important to consider the region where the grapes were grown and harvested. The Spanish sparkling wine you choose should be produced in Spain, as this will ensure that the grapes are grown locally and harvested under ideal conditions.

Finally, you’ll want to consider the age of the sparkling wine. Depending on the type of wine you’re looking for, you can opt for a younger Spanish sparkling wine or an aged bottle for a minimum of nine months.

Conclusion

Spanish sparkling wine, such as Cava, Freixenet, Segura Viudas, and Juvé & Camps, is a popular and unique alcoholic beverage that has recently increased demand among wine lovers worldwide. This sparkling wine is low in calories and antioxidants, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a beverage that won’t add additional calories to their daily consumption. When choosing a Spanish sparkling wine, it’s essential to consider the type, region, and age of the wine to select the best possible bottle for your needs.