Referred to by the locals as xampany, Cava is a delicious sparkling wine that comes from Catalonia and forms a large part of the region’s rich gastronomy, as you can probably imagine. Barcelona is no exception to this, offering hordes of drinking spots where you can enjoy a true authentic experience, rubbing shoulders with the locals as you sip on the sweet fizzy nectar.
The name ‘Cava’ comes from the Catalan word for the caves in which the drink was stored during the fermentation process. Cava first came about in the mid to late 1800s following an outbreak of phyllorexa which devastated red grapes that were the only type used in many vineyards across Catalonia at the time. Following the phyllorexa epidemic, many wine producers were forced to cultivate white grapes instead and thus, inspired by the French Champagne method, Cava was born.
We’ve put together some of our favourite Xampanyerias (Cava-bars) where you can indulge in a glass of bubbly. So let your hair down this weekend and discover some true Catalan history…
Xampañería Can Paxiano
If you’re looking for great atmosphere, greasy yet delicious grub and of course, great Cava the famous La Xampañería is the place for you. Located in the Barceloneta district, this family-owned bar offers a range of different Cavas so that you can try a few and once you’ve chosen your favourite, order it by the bottle! This bar is almost always packed, but don’t be put off by the crowds, it’s well worth a visit so get the bubbles flowing! Loved by locals and tourists alike, La Xampañería is definitely a place to let your hair down whilst sipping on some of the best bubbly in Barcelona! We highly recommend accompanying your drink with one of their crusty bread rolls and grilled chorizo.
Carrer de la Reina Cristina 7, 08003 Barcelona
La Deliciosa
A long day at the beach calls for a refreshing drink, and La Deliciosa offers just that, just footsteps away from where you may have been sunbathing all day. The Sangría de Cava from this much loved establishment is highly recommended by many, and can be enjoyed with some delicious Mediterranean bites whilst overlooking the sea views of Barceloneta. As well as the Sangría de Cava, La Deliciosa offers other cavas such as Signat Brut, and is also great for cocktails!
Passeig Marítimo de Barceloneta, 08039, Barcelona
La Vinya del Senyor
Barcelona’s El Born area is known for being trendy and chic, so there’s no question as to why La Vinya del Senyor is located here. Situated in a square at the foot of the Basílica Santa María del Mar, the ambience of this wine bar is warm and welcoming with breathtaking views of the cathedral. If you’re wanting to stop for a glass (or bottle) of Cava or wine, then look no further and be amazed by the extensive wine list that La Vinya del Senyor has to offer, served by friendly and knowledgeable wine experts (oh…and the tapas is great too)!
Plaça de Santa Maria 5, 08003 Barcelona
El Rincón Del Cava
If cheap and cheerful is what you desire, then El Rincón del Cava should be on the agenda! Located in the heart of Poble Sec, this establishment offers authentic tapas and delicious cava at an absolute bargain of a price, along with a warm atmosphere where you can relax and enjoy the evening with friends and other Cava-lovers. What’s more, you are welcomed by a camera as the owners at El Rincón del Cava like to photograph their customers and add it to their amazing photo wall, so get your smile ready!
Carrer de Blasco de Garay 53, 08004, Barcelona
Monvínic
If sleek and sophisticated surroundings are more to your taste, you make sure not to miss out on the wine and Cava tasting at Monvínic. With knowledgable staff always on hand to recommend the best Cavas based on your tastes, this classy establishment offers a modern and stylish ambience, perfect for enjoying the varieties of wines that they have to offer. Located in the trendy Eixample district, Monvínic is sure to tick off all of your Cava-tasting needs!
Carrer de la Diputació, 249, 08007 Barcelona
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