Wine Advocate #200 - CAVA

04.30.12

The latest Wine Advocate has just published, including the article "Give a Little Respect: Cava" with reviews by Neal Martin, his first report with his new beat in Spain. Valkyrie made a big splash with both of our Cava producers, Raventos i Blanc and Mercat - each representing the highest rated values in their respective categories. With a score of 93, Raventos i Blanc de Nit was the highest rated wine for $25 and under with a choice quote in the tasting notes: "Who needs Champagne when Cava can be as good as this?" In the under $15 category, Mercat Brut Nature (a custom proyect of Valkyrie Selections) received the top score as well - 91 points.

Raventos i Blanc de Nit Brut Rose 2009
93 points
“The outstanding 2009 De Nit (rose) has an almost hypnotic, perfect pale hue that is worth the price alone! A blend of classic Cava varieties with 5% Monastrell, it is sourced from 30- to 40-year-old vines from the estate. The nose is very subtle and very pretty with traces of rosewater, fish scale and Morello cherries, all beautifully defined and drawing you in. The palate is crisp and tense on the entry: a minimalist rose cave that is based on freshness and poise rather than delivering fruit intensity. It is a delicate, very pretty, harmonious Cava rose that is sensual and alluring. Who needs Champagne when Cava can be as good as this? Drink now-2015+”

Raventos i Blanc Reserva Brut 2009
90 points
“The 2009 Reserva Brut is a blend of classic Cava varieties (40% Macabeu, 40% Xarello and 20% Parellada) from 20- to 40-year-old vines in the 90-hectare Serral Vineyard on the Raventós I Blanc Estate. It has a vibrant bouquet of peach and lemon peel complemented by a subtle, crushed stone aroma. The palate is crisp and defined on the entry, with fine poise and build in the mouth. It leads harmoniously towards a succinct rosewater and white peach finish that is fresh and tense. Drink now-2017”

Mercat Brut
89 points
“The 2009 Mercat Brut is a blend of 40% Macabeu, 40% Xarello and 20% Parellada grown on clay soils with 5grams/l residual sugar. It has an intriguing bouquet that is slightly reduced at first, but left aside for a few moments opens up to reveal touches of white asparagus and dried herbs. The palate is nicely balanced with subtle citrus notes complemented by dried apricot and a touch of quince. It leads to a precise finish that could do with more length, but it is still an interesting Cava, one that is full of personality.”

Mercat Brut Nature
91 points
“The 2009 Mercat Brut Nature is the same blend but with 0.3 grams/l residual sugar. It has a wonderful peachy bouquet that blossoms in the glass with hints of dried apricot and honeysuckle. The palate is very well-balanced with crisp acidity and a fine thread of bitter lemon that lends tension and poise, leading to a very champagnois finish. Excellent!”

To download a copy of the recap, please CLICK HERE