5 CODORNÍU WINERY
BARCELONA
Freixenet and Codorníu go head-to-head for the accolade of best cava. But although both are produced in the north-eastern Catalonia region of Spain, Codorníu can trace its wine-making roots to 1551 (going back to Jaime Codorníu) whereas Freixenet began production in 1915.
Initially, the Codorníu family operated their winery alone but when Anna Codorníu married Miquel Raventós in
1659, it brought another maker into the fold. Indeed, it was Josep Raventós Fatjó who produced the company’s first batch of cava in 1872. It makes Codorníu the oldest producer of Spain’s sparkling wine and it is also the country’s oldest family firm.
Visitors are most certainly welcome and it’s also an opportunity to appreciate the Modernist architecture of the winery building. Commissioned by Manuel Raventós, who wanted the cellars to be close to the vineyards, it was enlarged by Josep Puig I Cadafalch, a contemporary of Gaudí and it is of such merit that it was declared National Historical-artistic Heritage in 1976.
There is certainly much to do and see. It’s possible to descend into the underground cellars and see traditional cava-making machinery. There are exhibits of the traditional grape presses and fermentation machinery too. Those over 18 will get to taste premium-range Codorníu cava and there is a cava tasting beginners course if you fancy educating your palette.
Reservations for the tours which last 90 minutes are recommended. They cost €16 for an adult ticket with a concessionary €12.80 ticket also available. Cava tasting beginners courses cost €42. For more, go to https:// www.visitascodorniu.com