50 Great Cavas is an annual publication which reflects the history of Cava, outlines how Cava is made, clarifies the different Cava styles, spotlights successful regions and recognizes outstanding producers. Cavas are classified according to dosage and ageing time on the lees. All of the 50 Great Cavas 2016 have scored at least 92 points making them either Outstanding (Gold medal) or Highly Recommended (Silver medal).
Many wine consumers never ever get to taste any or all of the 50 Great Cavas, as many wine importers and distributors are not taking notice of the fact that Cava is shouldering with the preeminent sparkling wine producing regions such as Champagne and Franciacorta. Lucky IWINETC delegates will not only get the chance to taste many (if not all) of the 50 Great Cavas during the two day conference but also the chance to visit many of the producers.
IWINETC gets bubbling on Monday 4th of April with a choice of 3 of the 50 Great Cava producers to visit:
Agustí Torelló Mata is home to contemporary installations and art work, dotted around the sleek, modern setting. Entering the winery, a spectacular fountain, created from the amphora-shaped Kripta bottles, greets the visitor and sets the scene for further contemporary sculptures and video installations showcasing grape growing and Cava production through the seasons.
Codorníu, known as the Cathedral of Cava was designed by architect Josep Puig i Cadafalch, a renowned Catalan Modernist who built many significant buildings in Barcelona, including a collaboration with Antoni Gaudí on the Café Torino. Work on the winery extended over 20 years, and the result is a remarkable work of art. The design features numerous cathedral-like naves. The Cellar Gran, an enormous cellar with an area of 2,000 m², which acted as the old fermentation room, is surmounted by a beautiful Catalan dome and divided into three vault like naves.
Owned and managed by the Domenech family, the Vallformosa winery is now in its 5th generation of wine growers. An interesting feature of the winery is the Wine Museum which houses many objects related to vine growing and wine making. One of the most beautiful settings is what they call the “Dome Room”, given its name because of the charming old round ceiling. The room looks through a glass wall to the barrels of wine in the cellar and is complimented by the original 1970s lights, combining an authentic old Spanish feel with a modern sophistication.
Visits to the above 50 Great Cava producers are sponsored by each winery and are therefore free of charge for registered conference delegates.
Register to attend IWINETC 2016 Barcelona here>>
Salut!
