Deep copper-cherry color; cherry, citrus, bread yeast on the nose; strawberry, cherry, citrus, raspberry on the palate.
Brut; blend of monastrell (aka mourvèdre) and grenache. Made using “traditional method”—second fermentation in the bottle, same as Champagne. Fine bubbles. Light-medium body; creamy, fun mouthfeel. Good acidity. Delightful, crowd-pleasing easy drinker. 12.5% ABV
Cava is the Catalan word for cave or cellar because caves and cellars were used (still are in many cases) to preserve and finish wines. Catalan winemakers officially adopted the “cava” term in 1970 to distinguish their product from Champagne. Founded in Barcelona, Spain in 1551, Codorníu the world’s oldest and second-largest producer of cava—more than 40 million bottles a year. They also produce some 18 million bottles of still wines at wineries in Spain, California, and Argentina.
While this is a superb rosé sparkling, it also is a simple cava. It features fresh red fruits with nice background notes of citrus. While the taste and charming visuals will please many, its reasonable price is a major attraction. You can secure rosé Champagne that is more complex and layered with more cutting acidity and greater length and depth, but you will pay four times as much for the privilege of consumption.
Bruno Colomer has been Codorníu’s main enologist since 2008. He asserts on the website: “Our philosophy is to create a diversity of cavas, both young and with a prolonged aging, but all with a common denominator: maximum quality with a fresh and modern style, maintaining the main characteristics of each grape variety. This can be achieved thanks to our origins: farm and certified vineyards of three different terroirs, three zones within the Denomination of Cava and different grape varieties. Anna is a reflection of the perfect essence of all this experience and the Codorníu style. A cava with unique personality.”
Codorníu Clasico Rosado Cava NV is delightful, tasty. Red fruits with touches of citrus to add drama to the finish. Some depth from nine months on the lees. Cava is such a great value and such a delicious bubbly wine choice. Ideal aperitif. Pair with tapas; appetizers and finger foods; fried fish; lean fish; shellfish; cured meats, charcuterie; lighter cheeses, soft cheeses. $9-11
Codorníu website, includes sexy video
