Cava Brut Nature

What is a Cava Brut Nature?

Cava Brut Nature is one that contains a maximum of 3 grams of sugar per litre, and in many cases none at all: it is the only dosage level in which no sugar may be added after the second fermentation.

This makes it the driest style of all, with very lively acidity and a profile in which the grape varieties' own notes (Xarel·lo, Macabeo, Parellada) and those from lees ageing come through clearly: citrus, fresh herbs, nuts and, in more aged examples, bakery notes.

Cava Brut Nature versus other dosage levels

Cava Brut Nature differs from the other categories in that it has no added sugar whatsoever:

• Brut Nature: up to 3 g/l, with no added sugar.

• Extra Brut: between 0 and 6 g/l.

• Brut: up to 12 g/l, slightly rounder on the palate.

• Dry, off-dry and sweet: above 17 g/l, much sweeter styles.

The lower the dosage, the more the quality of the grapes and the ageing process take centre stage, as there is no sugar to mask any potential flaws. This is why Brut Nature is often the style chosen by wineries to showcase their finest cuvées.

How to serve Cava Brut Nature

Cava Brut Nature is ideally served between 6°C and 8°C, in a white wine glass to better appreciate its aromatic complexity. Being such a dry style, it should be served well chilled so its acidity comes across as crisp rather than sharp.

Food pairing with Cava Brut Nature

Cava Brut Nature, precisely because of its dryness and pronounced acidity, is one of the most food-friendly styles:

• Shellfish, oysters and raw or carpaccio-style fish

• Iberian ham, cured cheeses and pickles

• Fried dishes and food with a touch of fat, which the cava's acidity balances perfectly

• Savoury nibbles in general

Frequently asked questions about Cava Brut Nature

What is the difference between Cava Brut Nature and Cava Brut?

Cava Brut Nature does not allow any added sugar and stays at a maximum of 3 g/l, whereas Cava Brut can reach up to 12 g/l. The difference is clear on the palate: Brut Nature is drier, more austere and mineral, while Brut is somewhat rounder and more approachable.

Is Cava Brut Nature the driest of all?

Yes, Cava Brut Nature is the category with the least permitted residual sugar across the whole range of cava dosage levels, alongside Extra Brut, which allows up to 6 g/l.

What does Cava Brut Nature pair best with?

Cava Brut Nature pairs particularly well with shellfish, fish, ham and cured cheeses, thanks to its high acidity and lack of sweetness, which cleanse the palate and bring out these flavours.