The tell-tale sound of a bottle of Sparkling being opened has an instant connection for celebrating. You can picture it in your mind right now:  that all-too-familiar sound of a cork erupting from the bottle, followed by immediate cheers from everyone in the room while reaching in with their empty champagne flute to be filled.  Let the fun begin!

I’ll be the first to agree that Champagne or Prosecco is alogical go-to aperitif for any special occasion.  But today, I’d like to introduce you to my favorite Sparkler – Cava.  In similar fashion to true Champagne being produced only in France and Prosecco in Italy,Cava can only bear that name if made using very traditional methods in Spain.  By law, anything else must simply be called “Sparkling Wine.”  

This Clos Mont-Blanc Cava from Conca de Barbara, Spain, has it all.  We all form our first impression by visual appeal, and what screams “Let’s Party!” more than a top-to-bottom shimmering silver bottle?  Just by looking at it you’re already expecting something fabulous and fun, and what’s inside will certainly not disappoint.  Once uncorked,you’ll notice that the volume of super-fine bubbles is unparalleled to any other.  The nickname on the bottle is“Bubbles,” and that’s exactly what you’ll get from this stunner – bubbles upon bubbles upon bubbles!  The key here,though, is that these bubbles are so tiny they allow for your ongoing enjoyment.  Often times a sparkling will have larger bubbles that leave you with an overly-full feeling to start your event, which is why I feel many people may choose to pass on such a delightful way to kick off a celebration.  

As for the taste, of course it’s delicious!  It’s subtle and delicate with a hint of toastiness and white fruit like apple and pear. It is definitely an elegant bottle, both inside and out, that will please any guest.  For a fun little twist, drop a few fresh berries into your glass.  The bubbles infuse the fruit, leaving you with “boozy berries” to enjoy at the end of your drink.  My favorite is pomegranate seeds, as they look like beautiful little red pearls floating in my glass while I sip.  

All bubbles are not created equal, so take care when making your choice.  After all, by design an aperitif is meant to set the stage for all that’s to come.  Be sure that stage is set with something spectacular.  

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Huge thank you and shout out to my Wine Concierge Karen Grewal, Key Account Manager at Elevage Wine and Spirits!