Cava, the sparkling wine from Spain that graces our celebrations, is renowned for its quality, versatility, aromas, and flavors. It’s the perfect partner for a myriad of foods. One of the simplest and most delightful pairings is with cheese, and here, i’ll guide you through the most common cheeses to serve with different types of Cava, enhancing your tasting experience and elevating your enjoyment.
Cava is unique! White or Rose, they are all produced using the traditional method, which involves a second fermentation in the bottle similar to Champagne, it boasts bubbles and a much more complex flavor profile compared to Prosecco or other sparkling wines. One of Cava’s advantages is its variety of styles, depending on the aging. Here’s a breakdown:
Cava de Guarda: Aged for a minimum of 9 months.
Cava de Guarda Superior:
Reserva (18+ months)
Gran Reserva (30+ months)
Paraje Calificado (36+ months)
When pairing Cava with cheese, consider the following principles:
Acidity: The high acidity of Cava enhances the cheese flavors on your palate.
Bubbles: Its effervescence cleanses the palate, making it ideal for more complex cheeses.
Complexity: Match the intensity of the cheese with the complexity of the Cava. Light and fresh Cavas pair better with mild cheeses, while aged Cavas complement aged cheeses.
Cava de Guarda:
- Manchego 3 Months: This Spanish sheep’s cheese has a buttery texture and nutty flavor that complements the freshness of young Cava.
- Goat Cheese: Its acidic and creamy nature pairs perfectly with the bright acidity of young Cava.
Cava Reserva (18+ months):
- Brie: The creaminess of Brie contrasts beautifully with the developed flavors of a Reserva Cava, even more so with the addition of honey or a slice of Jamón Consorcio Serrano combining creamy, sweet, salty, and refreshing elements.
- Mimolette: This French cow’s milk cheese, known for its intense orange color and firm texture, has a nutty flavor with a hint of sweetness and caramel notes that pair well with both Reserva and Gran Reserva Cava.
Gran Reserva and Paraje Calificado (30+ and 36+ months):
- Aged Gouda: The nutty and caramelized flavors of aged Gouda pair wonderfully with the deep and mature notes of Gran Reserva Cava.
- Parmesan: The sharp and savory profile of Parmesan balances with the refined and persistent bubbles of aged Cava.
- Sheep Cheese with Truffle: A sheep cheese with fresh truffle is a divine experience. If you prefer it without truffle, opt for a 12-month Manchego.
When serving multiple cheeses, start with lighter cheeses and progress to stronger flavors to avoid overwhelming your palate. Remember, a good pairing enhances both the wine and the cheese. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet night at home, these pairings will surely elevate your appreciation for this sparkling Spanish gem.
