If you’re traveling through Catalonia and have a love for sparkling wines, a visit to a cava winery is an essential experience. Cava is Spain’s answer to Champagne—a high-quality sparkling wine made using the traditional method. Produced primarily in the Penedès region, just a short distance from Barcelona, cava reflects the region’s winemaking heritage, innovation, and deep respect for tradition.
In this article, we’ll explore what makes cava so special, what to expect when visiting a cava winery, and how to make the most of your sparkling wine adventure in Catalonia.
What is Cava?
Cava is a sparkling wine made in the traditional method (méthode traditionnelle), the same way as Champagne, but using primarily local grape varieties such as Macabeu, Xarel·lo, and Parellada. It undergoes a second fermentation in the bottle, which creates the signature bubbles and complex flavors.
While cava can range from light and citrusy to rich and toasty, its diversity and affordability have made it one of Spain’s most beloved wines. And there’s no better way to appreciate it than by visiting a cava winery and seeing the process up close.
What to Expect at a Cava Winery
Visiting a cava winery gives you an inside look at how this iconic wine is made—from grape to glass. Most tours follow a similar format:
- Vineyard visit: Learn about the local grape varieties and the impact of the Mediterranean climate on cava production.
- Cellar tour: See the traditional cellars where bottles age in silence, sometimes for years, before they’re ready to drink.
- Production process: Understand each step, from harvesting to the “riddling” and “disgorging” processes that create cava’s elegance.
- Tasting: Finish your visit by tasting a selection of cavas—often including brut, reserva, and gran reserva styles.
Whether you’re a casual wine lover or an experienced enthusiast, a cava tour will deepen your appreciation of Catalonia’s sparkling gem.
Top Cava Wineries to Visit
Here are some of the most recommended cava wineries to explore near Barcelona:
1. Freixenet (Sant Sadurní d’Anoia)
One of the largest and most recognized cava producers in the world, Freixenet offers comprehensive tours that mix tradition and scale. The visit includes historic underground cellars and tastings of multiple cava styles.
2. Codorníu (Sant Sadurní d’Anoia)
Codorníu is credited as the pioneer of cava production. Their winery is a stunning example of Catalan Modernist architecture, and the guided tour includes a train ride through the vast cellars.
3. Llopart (Subirats)
A more boutique experience, Llopart provides insight into family-run cava traditions. Their tour emphasizes sustainability and organic farming, and the views from their terrace are unforgettable.
4. Recaredo
Focused exclusively on biodynamic and long-aged cava, Recaredo offers an in-depth look at artisanal cava-making. Their tastings highlight complexity and elegance.
When to Visit a Cava Winery
The best time to visit a cava winery is during harvest season (late August to October), when the vineyards are most active and you can see winemaking in progress. However, wineries are open year-round and each season offers a different charm—from the fresh spring air to cozy tastings in winter cellars.
Tips for Your Visit
- Book in advance, especially during weekends and holidays.
- Many cava wineries offer tours in English, but always check the language availability.
- Combine your winery visit with a cultural stop, such as Montserrat or a traditional Catalan lunch nearby.
A visit to a cava winery is more than a tasting—it’s a deep dive into Catalonia’s winemaking soul. With its rich traditions, passionate producers, and stunning countryside settings, the cava experience is one of the most authentic ways to connect with Catalan culture. Whether you’re new to sparkling wine or already a fan, you’ll walk away with a new appreciation for what makes cava so unique.