Freixenet launches ‘Ice’ Cava

Leading Cava producer Freixenet has launched a new Cava which is designed to be enjoyed over ice.

(Photo: Freixenet)

Called simply Ice, the new sparkling wine is now available in the UK, which Freixenet has chosen as the first market for its release.

Freixenet said that Ice, which is presented in a white bottle, would become “synonymous with the warmer months” and was “perfect for Summer cocktails”.

Freixenet Ice Cava is made using the traditional method with a blend of Macabeo, Xarel-lo and Parellada grape varieties with a touch of Chardonnay.

The wine has been aged for 12-14 months before release and has a dosage of 45g/l.

The blend has been made “just a little richer to balance the chill of the ice”, Freixenet said, and “caters to all palates, especially when garnished with mint leaves or a twist of lime”.

Freixenet Ice offers aromas of “peaches, flowers and nuances of tropical fruits”, and “can be enjoyed at any moment of any day, encouraging revellers to create spontaneous moments of celebration with their friends”, the company added.

The sparkling wine over ice category emerged in 2011 with the launch of Moet & Chandon’s Ice Impérial Champagne. Since then several other brands have released their own versions.

Last year, JP Chenet launched a charmat method expression called JP Chenet Ice.

Freixenet Ice Cava will be available from Morrisons for an initial period before being rolled out to other retailers and the on-trade from June. Ice carries an RRP of £12.99.

Freixenet has confirmed trade listings for Ice in venues such as Las Iguanas and Landmark, part of Novus Leisure.