Who makes it?
The Codorniu 1872 is an organic Cava that the makers suggest honours the original Cava created by Josep Raventos. It will be no surprise to discover that 1872 is the year Josep produces these first wines Santa Sarduni d’Anoia. The town is just to the south of Barcelona in the region of Penedes. Interestingly, Penedes is now a wine region that is 100% Organic.
To discover more about the region Penedes, please read Why you should be drinking more Penedes wine!
Cava is Spain’s version of sparkling wine made using the traditional method. The traditional method also creates the most famous sparkling wine in the world – Champagne. Cava mostly uses three Spanish white grape varieties. These are Macabeo (Viura in Rioja), Xarel-lo and Parellada.
To discover more about Viura, please read V is for Viura! Getting to know Rioja’s white side.
To discover more about Xarel-lo, please read Xarel-lo : The grape with the X factor & why we love it!
How do they make it?
This sparkling wine does use the Spanish trio Macabeo, Xarel-lo and Parellada. as the blend. It is organically made and produced. As these grapes tend to achieve ripeness more consistently, the wines labelled as Cava de Guarda rest for at least 9 months their lees or dead yeast cells. Champagne wines need more time on lees before disgorgement.
Codorniu 1872 Organic Cava is a Cava de Guarda. Interestingly, this wine happens to have been made from grapes from a single vintage as well.
To read more about lees, please read What are Lees?
What does it taste like?
This is a fresh and lighter style of fizz. The aromas are reminiscent of pear, grapefruit, herbs and eggshell minerality. The flavours have some added yeasty characters too and finish with lemon and apple fruit. There is enough roundness to give it softness and support the fruit.
What to drink it with?
Tapas and appetisers are a given for enjoying with this wine. Also enjoy this wine with chicken, fish and seafood.
Cheese
Drink with fresh and bloomy cheeses. You could start with camembert or brie.
Quickie review « Cava like this is like a fresh taste of Spring anytime. »
Country of Origin: Cava DO, Spain
Tasting Date: February 2026
Price: UK £12 | €10 | US$ 12++
Drink: now – 2 years
Needs food: no
Source: tasting
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