2022 Pere Mata Cupada Rosé Cava Reserva Brut Nature: Delicious Spanish Bubbly

During the last couple years, the quality of Cava, a Spanish sparkling wine, has been increasing, due to several different factors from stricter regulations to more organic and sustainable wines. For some Cava producers, they are trying to emulate, in some respects, the smaller Grower Champagne producers. This is all excellent news for those who desire higher quality, more unique, and interesting Cavas. 

One such winery is Mata i Coloma, owned by winemaker Pere Mata, and I'll note that "coloma" means "dove" or "pigeon." Pere once worked for larger producers of Cava, but struck out on his own in 2000, creating a small Cava winery which concentrates on quality. The vineyard, located in Sant Sadurní d’Anoia in the Penedès region, consists of only 5 hectares, organically farmed (and awaiting certification), and planted with the traditional varieties of Xarello, Macabeo, and Parellada. The vines are an average of 30 years old.

In general, his Cavas are Brut Nature, meaning they don't have any dosage and are very dry. His wines also only use free run juice and then are aged for at least 24 months, with some being aged over 48 months. Pere continues to improve the quality of his Cavas, constantly experimenting with various aspects of production, from the aging vessels to time on the lees.  

The 2022 Pere Mata Cupada Rosé Cava Reserva Brut Nature ($21.99) is composed of a blend of 30% Macabeo, 25%, Parellada, 20% Xarello, and 25% Monastrell. The wine was fermented and aged in stainless steel for about 24-30 months. It was disgorged without any dosage and possesses a 12% ABV. It's a pale pink in color with an enticing aroma of red fruits, which makes you desire a taste. On the palate, it's crisp and dry, with clean tastes of red fruit, especially strawberry, with hints of citrus and rose petals. Plenty of tiny bubbles, a lengthy, pleasing finish, and overall, an air of elegance and deliciousness. 

For the quality and taste of this Cava, it's very reasonably priced, and can be enjoyed on its own, although it would pair well with a variety of foods as well. Seafood, chicken, pasta, and more. Pere Mata has produced an excellent Cava, and I hope to taste more of his wines in the future. Locally, you can find this Cava at Victoria Hill Wine, Spirits & Gourmet in Melrose.