Does a Bottle of Cava Expire? And What’s the Best Way to Store It?

After the Christmas holidays, it may happen that a few bottles of Cava remain unopened. That’s when two common questions arise: How long does this product stay in good condition? And what’s the best way to store the bottle so it doesn’t spoil?

The first piece of advice we can offer to address both questions is simple: open and enjoy the bottle. Indeed, find a good excuse and savor it in the most delightful way possible.
Cava is a sparkling wine characterized by its second fermentation in the bottle using the traditional method. It’s a fantastic product to pair with a wide range of foods — rice dishes, appetizers, cheeses, meats, fish, seafood, or even sushi.
While some people may prefer to save it for special occasions, there are endless pairing options, making it perfect to enjoy the product’s virtues at any time. In particular, the Cava Castell d’Or range offers a wide variety of products, allowing each consumer to find the Cava that best suits their taste.

If we still wish to keep the bottle, we should bear in mind that at the time of sale, Cava is already in optimal condition for consumption. Cava does not expire, as it’s a non-perishable product, but over time — and with changes in environmental conditions — its organoleptic characteristics such as color, aroma, or flavor may be altered.
Its recommended consumption period is between one and two years. Cava bottles do not display an expiration date; instead, the vintage or batch number is indicated on the label or packaging, which can serve as a reference.
Cava doesn’t expire, but it does evolve. After this recommended period, it’s advisable to check that none of its qualities have changed.

What should we look for to ensure it’s still at its best?

We should pay attention to elements such as carbon dioxide. Make sure the Cava produces a steady stream of bubbles, both visible and perceptible on the palate. If the bubbles are no longer noticeable, it’s likely the Cava has lost its optimal condition.
Likewise, the aroma should be pleasant, with no off odors. The color also reveals information about the product’s condition and degree of evolution: young Cavas tend to have a paler, straw-like hue, while those with longer aging display a deeper color. And, of course, the taste should be pleasant and more or less complex depending on the aging period.

To minimize the loss of its organoleptic properties, Cava should be stored at a stable temperature of around 12–13°C (54–55°F). It’s important to avoid temperature fluctuations, heat sources, and direct sunlight. A cool, dimly lit place is ideal.
Regarding storage position, it’s best to keep the bottle upright, preventing the liquid from touching and moistening the cork, which helps preserve it in better condition. Similarly, if you keep the bottle in the refrigerator before serving, it’s preferable to store it in a stable area — avoiding the door, where temperature variations are more frequent.