Handford Wines

Raventos I Blanc, situated in the heart of Catalonia is one of the premier producers of Cava in the DO. Founded by Josep Maria Raventos and his son Manuel Raventos Negra, this 90 ha single "Pago" "estate" is in Sant Sadurni d'Anoia, between the coastal hills and Monserrat, 40 km west of Barcelona, within the DO Penedes region. The Raventos family and Codorniu family ties go back to the 15th century. Manuel Raventos, the managing director and heir, grew up in the Codorniu mansion. Sr. Raventos decided to go solo, producing a small production (only 200,000 bottles per year, compared to Codorniu, who have 100 million bottles in stock at any given time) of super deluxe Cavas that could rival any premium Champagne (such as Roederer, Clicquot). The Raventos single vineyard is privileged to have a Mediterranean climate with gentle winters and hot dry summers, with average temperatures of 15 degrees Celsius. Soil is poor in organic matter, yet high percentage of chalk exists, making the area ideal for viticulture.

The Wine

One of the great sparkling wines of Spain. Aged minimum 5 years on its lees prior to disgorgement, the Gran Reserva has stunning depth and complexity with minerals, brioche and lees character coming through strongly. No yeasty soda water cava here! Regarded as the most prestigious Cava house in Spain. Owned by Mr Raventos, who previously owned a large share in Cordoniu Cava house, he sold out to the rest of his family in 1982 and started this venture literally across the road, 45 minutes north of Barcelona in prime Cava territory. The Gran Reserva takes in some of the 60 year old Xarello vines which add such incredible Champagne-like depth and breadth to the wines.

Single Bottle: £22.95

In a case of 12: £21.80