Long-aged cavas, which mature between 8 and 15 years on their lees, represent the highest expression of the art of sparkling wine making in Spain. This long aging process gives the wines extraordinary complexity, depth and elegance, making them especially appreciated by connoisseurs. The long aging on the lees develops subtle aromas, an elegant bubble and a creamy texture, differentiating these cavas from those with a shorter aging.
The process of making long-aged cavas is expensive and contributes to their higher price. Factors such as prolonged storage, greater labor, and the use of high-quality base wines increase production costs. In addition, long aging requires a significant financial investment before the wines reach the market, justifying their premium price.
Here is a selection of the 10 best long-aged cavas, which represent excellence in this category:
1. Barón Merten Family Reserve 2012 – Jaume Giró and Giró Caves
This cava has received prestigious awards, including the Grand Gold Medal at the Virtus international competition in Lisbon and the Gold Medal at the Expovina in Zurich. Its long aging provides a deep and harmonious taste profile that reflects the essence of long-aged cavas.
2. La Capella 2011 – Juvé & Camps
A Gran Reserva cava that matures for an average of 100 months and offers exceptional complexity and quality.
3. Can Sala 2013 – Ferrer Family Wines
A “Cava de Paraje Calificado” that reflects the unique properties of its privileged terroir, with fine notes of ripe fruit.
4. Mirgin Exeo 2017 – High Alella
This cava expresses the purity and transparency of its terroir and, thanks to the long aging on its lees, develops a unique personality.
5. Selected 2013 – Cava Jaume Giró i Giró
Made with a maturation period of over 10 years, it presents an exquisitely fine bubble and great aromatic complexity, with notes of brioche, dried fruit and a subtle toasted touch.
6. Great Vintage 2015 – Pere Ventura
A cava that demonstrates the potential of long aging, with a complex aromatic profile and a refined taste.
7. Claror 2016 – El Cep Wines
An organic cava that, thanks to its long aging, achieves a harmonious balance of aromas and textures.
8. Clos Nostre Senyor 2015 – Mestres
Mestres is known for its long-aged cavas, and Clos Nostre Senyor 2015 follows this tradition with an elegant structure, fine bubbles and creamy texture.
9. Guilera Brut Nature Gran Reserva
A family winery specializing in long-aged cavas, with maturation times of up to 18 years to achieve maximum harmony and complexity.
10. Masia Segle XV Brut Nature Gran Reserva 2014 – Rovellats
An exquisite cava, in which the long aging on the lees intensifies the depth, finesse and complexity.
These exceptional cavas are the result of masterful craftsmanship and absolute dedication, offering a luxurious and refined tasting experience.
