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The cavas from Juve y Camps are widely considered to be among the top in class. This particular vintage is one of their very best.

It's a blend of 40% Macabeu grapes with 20% Xarel-lo, 40% Parellada.

To accompany a Spanish ham we'd actually choose this in preference to a French champagne, but that's not misplaced nationalist sentiment. It just goes better. It's a classy champagne contender and its retro styling is very beautiful, too.

Popping its cork reveals a boisterous nature. It's a beautiful light golden colour, with small bubbles reminiscent of a champagne. There are hints of apple and lemon flavours, maybe some biscuit. It's fresh in the mouth, with just the right level of acidity and has great poise. The finish is strong and there's a hint of lemon there too.

We love it!

Spanish cava quality varies widely, so don't be put off by cheap and cheerful products like Freixenet, which is widely sold in the UK at rock bottom prices but isn't in any way comparable with a cava like those made by Juve y Camps.

Serve as cold as your fridge will go, or even pop it in the freezer for a bit before serving. Some people put their flute glasses together with the bottle in the freezer for a bit before serving, for a little extra chill.