Cava sales surpassed 149 million bottles in the first nine months of this year, but due to a two-year drought limiting product availability, sales are being rationed.
VILAFRANCA DEL PENEDÈS, December 19, 2024 — The ongoing drought in Spain, particularly in the
Penedès region, slowed Cava growth and sales in the first nine months of 2024, with total sales dropping
12.28% to 149 million bottles, compared to 170 million in 2023. Domestic sales fell 3.67%, while
international sales declined by 15.81%.
By category, Cavas de Guarda saw a decline of 11.72%, while Cavas de Guarda Superior—those distinguished by stringent regulations and ageing for over 18 months—dropped by 17.15%. Cavas de Guarda accounted for 134.4 million bottles sold in the first three quarters of 2024, while Cavas de Guarda Superior totaled 14.7 million bottles.
With sales restrictions primarily affecting Germany, with a 55.10% decline in sales, followed by the UK at 15.44%, Belgium (14.3 million bottles) and the U.S. (12 million bottles) have become the first and second-largest export markets respectively. Russia, Cava’s tenth-largest market, saw a 20.82% decline. Among the top 10 global markets, only Sweden, Japan, and the Netherlands saw growth.
The president of D.O. Cava, Javier Pagés, stated: “There is a clear shortage of Cava at a time when quality sparkling wines are in high demand worldwide. However, this scarcity has driven up prices and margins, benefiting the entire supply chain, with grape prices rising significantly despite the drought-induced low yields.”
Looking towards 2025, the recent rainfall has had a positive impact on the vines in the area most affected by drought. While it’s too early to fully assess the outlook for next year, the current situation offers cautious optimism. To help manage uncertainty in the face of unpredictable weather patterns, the D.O. Cava unanimously approved a new regulation: a Qualified Guarantee Provision, which allows Cavas de Guarda to reserve surplus wine from the harvest to address future needs or deficits.
The Cava Designation of Origin is focused on adding value to the entire sector by raising awareness of Cava’s world-class quality and promoting its diversity. Through initiatives like Cava de Guarda Superior segmentation, zoning, Integral Producers (Elaborador Integral), and organic Cavas de Guarda Superior, the D.O. aims to highlight Cava’s unique qualities and strengthen its global brand. International campaigns in various markets with a special focus on Spain, the USA, Japan, and the UK—alongside participation in professional events, enhance Cava’s international presence. The Cava Academy also plays a key role in training ambassadors and fostering global interest in Cava’s exceptional qualities, gastronomic versatility, and cultural heritage.
D.O. Cava: commitment to origin, land and sustainability
With more than 70% of international sales, Cava is the Spanish D.O. with the highest exports. The Cava industry has over 38,000 hectares of vineyards and more than 6,200 winegrowers, and its 349 associated wineries are present in more than 100 countries. Cava, which pairs harmoniously with every type of gastronomy, is made using the traditional method, with a strict commitment to origin, land and sustainability.
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