D.O. Cava/Mestres, Mas Via 2005, 1.5l

The size of the bottle has a significant effect on how a sparkling wine ages. In a larger bottle, ageing proceeds more slowly than in classic 0.75 l bottles, because the smaller ratio of air and carbon dioxide to the volume of wine slows the chemical reactions that affect aroma and bubbles. The result is finer, more elegant bubbles, deeper complexity and better integration of flavours, while smaller bottles speed up ageing and the wine reaches maturity faster. That is why, for the long-term ageing of premium Gran Reserva Cavas, bottles of 1.5 l and larger are often recommended, allowing the wine to develop its full aromatic profile and harmonious structure without the risk of excessive oxidation.

Awards:
2005 vintage - 95 Parker points

Grape variety:
The wine is made from the classic Catalan cuvée of Xarel·lo (dominant share), Macabeo and Parellada, which together give it a complex and balanced character.

Vineyard:
The grapes come from vines more than 60 years old of the Mestres winery in the Penedès (Sant Sadurní d'Anoia) region, one of the most traditional centres of Spanish Cava. The vines are grown on soils with a clay-limestone terroir and Mediterranean climate, which together with hand-harvesting ensure an excellent balance of ripeness and freshness, ideal for long ageing in bottle and barrel.

Ageing:
This Gran Reserva Cava is made according to the traditional method (champenoise). The base wine first ferments and ages 12 months in barrels of French oak/chestnut, then undergoes secondary fermentation in the bottle and ages more than 140 months (over 11 years) on the lees under natural cork. This long time on the lees gives the wine fine bubbles, a complex structure and depth of aroma.

Taste and aroma:
In the glass it shows an intense golden-amber colour, with an aroma rich in baked apples, honey, royal jelly, mineral nuances, roasted almonds, Mediterranean herbs and delicate pastry. On the palate it is smooth, richly textured, with fruity tones complemented by nuances of camphor, a sharp yet well-balanced acidity and a very long, delicious finish.

Tasting notes:
It is recommended to serve chilled to 8–15 °C, ideally opening the bottle a few minutes before serving, so the aromatic layers and textures of the wine can fully develop.

Food pairing:
Thanks to its complexity and length on the palate, Mas Via is a wonderful partner to luxurious dishes. It pairs excellently with smoked and baked fish, mussels and lobster, foie gras or delicate creamy cheeses. It is also excellent as a standalone tasting element at celebrations or festive occasions. An ideal pairing with gastronomy, where the wine's texture and acidity complement rich flavour elements.

Alcohol content: 12%
Origin: Spain, D.O. Cava (Penedès) – the Mestres winery is one of the oldest producers of Cava, with a history dating back to 1312