The holidays are here and it's time to pop open the bubbly! This year, why not try something a little different and go for Spanish cava? Not only is cava much more affordable than other sparkling wines, but it also packs a big punch of flavor. Read on to find out why Spanish cava should be your beverage of choice this holiday wines season.
What Is Cava?
Cava is a sparkling wine produced in Spain using traditional techniques. It is made from three varieties of grapes: Macabeo, Xarel·lo, and Parellada. This trio of grapes creates a light, refreshing taste that pairs well with both savory and sweet foods. While many people think of Champagne when they hear the word "sparkling," Spanish cava is quickly becoming an equally popular option thanks to its unique flavor profile.
Types of Cava
There are several types of cava available on the market today. Brut Nature has no added sugar and offers a dry finish; Extra Brut has less than 6 grams per liter of added sugar; Brut has between 6-12 grams per liter; Extra Dry has 12-17 grams per liter; and Sec has 17-35 grams per liter. If you’re looking for something with a bit more sweetness, then Sec might be the right choice for you.
Pairing Cava With Food
Cava can be paired with both savory dishes as well as sweet desserts. Its light effervescence makes it perfect for pairing with seafood dishes like grilled mahi mahi or shrimp scampi. For those looking for something more indulgent, try pairing cava with chocolates or fruits like strawberries or raspberries - the sweetness will be balanced perfectly by the acidity of the bubbly!
Tempranillo for Christmas dinner
Tis the season for festive gatherings and special celebrations. This year, why not add a touch of sophistication to your holiday table by introducing a bottle of Spanish Tempranillo? With its beautiful ruby-red hue, bold tannins, and notes of leather and tobacco, this robust yet elegant wine is sure to make a lasting impression on your guests. Let’s take a closer look at what makes Spanish Tempranillo so special.
What is Tempranillo?
Tempranillo is a type of red wine grape that originated in Spain but has since become popular around the world. It boasts an intense flavor profile, with notes of ripe raspberries, cherries, black pepper, leather, tobacco, and more. Despite its intense flavors, it’s still light enough to pair well with a range of dishes—from roasted vegetables to grilled steak and even chocolate desserts.
The Origins of Tempranillo
The origin story of Tempranillo dates back centuries. It was first cultivated in Spain during the 13th century when the country was under Muslim rule. Over time it became firmly entrenched as one of Spain’s most beloved grapes; today it accounts for almost half of all grape production in the country. Spaniards love their Tempranillo so much that it has been given the nickname “El Rey de los Vino Tinto” (the King of Red Wine).
Its popularity has since spread far beyond Spain’s borders—it is now grown in many countries across Europe as well as South America and Australia. In fact, some experts believe that it could soon become one of the world’s most popular varieties due to its versatility and unique flavor profile.
Which Foods Should I Pair With Tempranillo?
When it comes time to make your food pairings, there are lots of options for tempranillo! The high acidity makes it a great choice for dishes that feature tomato or other acidic ingredients like vinaigrettes. It’s also an ideal partner for roasted meats like turkey or pork tenderloin as well as dishes featuring mushrooms or truffles. And don’t forget about dessert! The sweet dessert wines made from tempranillo pair perfectly with rich chocolate cakes, flans, and more.
This holiday season, why not treat yourself—and your guests—to something different? Introducing Spanish Tempranillo and cava (sparkling wine) to your Christmas celebration will be sure to elevate the occasion while also showcasing your love for good food and drink! You can be sure that this elegant wine will make an impression on everyone around your table! So don't wait any longer - get ready for Christmas by stocking up on some Spanish wines!
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