Cava DO on target to become 100% organic by 2025

By 2025, every bottle of the Spanish fizz —including the Reserva, Gran Reserva, and top-tier Cava de Paraje Calificado categories —will be produced from organically grown grapes.

In November 2023, Joan Huguet, president of DO Penedès, the heartland for Cava, told the drinks business that he was aiming for 100% organic conversion by 2025.

Now, with just weeks left until 2025 is upon us, the DO has confirmed it will hit that extraordinary target; a first for any DO in the world.

By 2025, every bottle of Cava de Guarda Superior — including Reserva, Gran Reserva, and the highest quality tier Cava de Paraje Calificado — will be crafted from organically grown grapes.

“Our commitment to 100% organic production for Cava de Guarda Superior by 2025 marks a significant milestone in our journey toward sustainability,” said Javier Pagés, president of the DO Cava Regulatory Board.

“This initiative not only enhances the quality and authenticity of our wines but also aligns with global environmental standards, reflecting our dedication to preserving the rich heritage of Cava.”

Unique stamp

The DO does not, however, plan to simply rely on its organic status to communicate messages of quality to the consumer.

New ‘quality stamps’ on all bottles of Cava will guarantee the origin and quality of the wine, and contain information about the category and minimum ageing requirements. A unique code on each bottle will also allow consumers to find out further information about the provenance of their wine, should they so wish.

US focus

Pagés stressed that the move to 100% organic viticulture would help Cava to stand out in one of its most important markets.

“This bold step also strengthens Cava’s positioning in the competitive US sparkling wine market, where it is poised to captivate wine lovers with its heritage, quality, and commitment to organic viticulture,” he said.

The United States is the second-largest market for Cava outside of the EU. And a three-year promotional campaign is underway to win over more American consumers and make them choose Cava over other sparkling rivals such as Prosecco or Champagne.

“DO Cava is executing an extensive three-year campaign in the US, supported by EU grants,” revealed Pages. “This campaign aims to elevate the presence and appreciation of Cava de Guarda Superior among American consumers and professionals.”

Near the sea

When the DO first announced its intention to become fully organic, Huguet told db: “We are a region near the sea, so we have few problems, and it is easy for us to be organic. We are sure that organic is better for our landscape, more healthy and more sustainable. With climate change, conversion is becoming easier because we have less rain, less humidity and so less risk of funghi attacks.”

Furthermore, Huguet added: “For sure, in 2025 it will be compulsory to be organic. If you are not organic you cannot be part of DO Penedès.”

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