Freixenet, Cordon Negro Brut Cava NV, Catalonia, Spain

Tasting Note: Don’t be afraid of the black bottle from Freixenet, which is also the world’s largest producer of traditional method (i.e., Champagne method) wines on the planet.

This is an inexpensive, straightforward cava you can open without thinking and know you’re getting good quality for your money.

Pale-intensity lemon in color, this wine has a nose of green apple, blossom, lemon-and-lime citrus and ripe-green pear.

On the palate the dry, medium-bodied cava delivers fruit flavors suggested on the nose supported by medium-plus acidity and medium flavor intensity.

Bottle Note: Freixenet Brut sparkles with crisp apple & pear flavors and a hint of ginger. Sparkling wine fermented in this bottle.