The salmon pink 2008 Brut Rosado Cuvee Especial is made from 100% Trepat. Aromas of strawberry, raspberry, and cherry blossom inform the nose of this sexy Cava. In the glass floral and spice notes emerge and lead to a crisp, savory, refreshing finish.Castillo Perelada’s finest wines are their deluxe still wine cuvees from the DO of Emporda where their magnificent estate (a must for tourists) is located. However, they also produce very good Cavas in a variety of styles. Rose Cava is a wonderful match for Spain’s great hams and Castillo Perelada makes several.Importer: Perelada USA; www.castilloperelada.com

The 2007 Brut Rosado Cuvee Especial is produced from 100% Trepat. Medium salmon pink in color, it delivers an earthy rhubarb and cranberry-scented perfume. This leads to a dry, crisp, savory sparkler with good depth of flavor and overall balance. Drink this lengthy effort over the next 2-3 years. As Champagne prices have soared due to the weak dollar, Cava sales have taken off dramatically. Concurrently, the quality of Cava seems to have improved noticeably over the past several years so the new popularity of Cava may not be just a passing fancy. The Cavas del Castillo Perelada portfolio offers solid quality at fair prices.Importer: Perelada; www.castilloperelada.com