Codorníu Non Plus Ultra Reserva Organic Brut
Sparkling, Traditional Method (Metodo Tradicional). It is a dry, refined 'Brut' style that emphasizes freshness and secondary complexity from aging. · Codorníu, the world's oldest and largest producer of bottle-fermented sparkling wine. A family-owned titan of the Penedès region with a reputation for consistency and innovation, notably being the first to use Chardonnay in Cava.
Vintage: Non-Vintage (NV). It is a blend of several years to maintain a consistent house style, though the 'Reserva' status ensures each component has significantly exceeded the basic aging requirements.
Type
Sparkling, Traditional Method (Metodo Tradicional). It is a dry, refined 'Brut' style that emphasizes freshness and secondary complexity from aging.
Producer
Codorníu, the world's oldest and largest producer of bottle-fermented sparkling wine. A family-owned titan of the Penedès region with a reputation for consistency and innovation, notably being the first to use Chardonnay in Cava.
Country
Spain, a global leader in viticulture known for its traditional method sparkling wines (Cava) and unique indigenous varieties, blending historic techniques with modern organic certifications.
Vintage
Non-Vintage (NV). It is a blend of several years to maintain a consistent house style, though the 'Reserva' status ensures each component has significantly exceeded the basic aging requirements.
Region & Appellation
Cava DO, specifically the Comtats de Barcelona sub-zone within the Penedès region of Catalonia, Spain. This 'Reserva' designation indicates a minimum of 18 months of aging on the lees.
Grape Varieties
A traditional Cava blend of Macabeo, Xarel·lo, and Parellada. Macabeo provides structure, Xarel·lo offers acidity and aging potential, and Parellada brings delicate floral aromatics.
Color & Appearance
Pale straw yellow with bright greenish reflections. It features a fine, persistent bead (mousse) and excellent clarity, indicating high-quality traditional fermentation.
Aroma Profile
Clean and elegant with primary notes of citrus and green apple, followed by secondary 'Reserva' aromas of toasted brioche, dried nuts (almonds), and a delicate honeyed floral finish.
Tasting Notes
The palate is crisp yet creamy. It opens with vibrant lime and white peach, transitioning into a middle of almond pastry. The finish is long and dry, showcasing a perfect balance of fruit and evolutionary notes.
Flavor Profile
Dominated by Reinette apples, lemon zest, and subtle notes of yeast and toasted bread. There is a faint mineral salinity on the finish that adds complexity.
Body & Texture
Medium-bodied with a soft, creamy mouthfeel. The fine bubbles provide a textured, velvety sensation rather than an aggressive carbonation.
Acidity & Tannins
High but well-integrated acidity that provides freshness and lift. Being a white sparkling wine, tannins are negligible, focusing instead on structural acidity.
Sweetness Level
Brut, typically containing between 6 to 12 grams per liter of residual sugar, resulting in a dry perception balanced by a fruity core.
Alcohol Content
11.5% to 12% ABV, which is standard for Cava, providing a light to medium body without any alcoholic heat.
Aging & Oak
No oak influence. The wine undergoes traditional bottle aging on the lees for at least 18 months, which imparts bready, autolytic notes without wood flavors.
Food Pairings
Excellent with Iberico ham, salted almonds, seafood paella, grilled prawns, or even light creamy pastas. Its acidity cuts through fats beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Serve well-chilled between 6-8°C (43-46°F) in a tulip-shaped glass or white wine glass to allow the aromas to breathe. Decanting is not recommended.
Price Range
$15 - $22 USD. Widely considered a 'premium value' wine that punches above its weight compared to non-vintage Champagne.
Quality Assessment
Score range 88-90 points. It is a 'Super-Premium' Cava that represents the high tier of organic production from a major house, noted for its reliability.
Production Methods
Metodo Tradicional; primary fermentation in stainless steel followed by a second fermentation in the bottle. This version uses 100% organically grown grapes and is certified organic.
Terroir
Grapes are sourced from various Penedès vineyards with limestone-rich soils and a Mediterranean climate, providing optimal ripeness while maintaining essential acidity.
History & Heritage
First created in 1897, 'Non Plus Ultra' was the first Cava to be sold under a brand name. Codorníu holds Royal Warrant status in Spain and is a cornerstone of Catalan culture.
Interesting Facts
The name 'Non Plus Ultra' is a Latin phrase meaning 'Nothing Further Beyond,' historically used to describe the pinnacle of achievement or the end of the known world.
Cellaring Potential
Designed for immediate consumption upon release, though its 'Reserva' structure allows it to hold well for 2-3 years in a cool, dark cellar.
Similar Wines
Freixenet Elyssia Gran Reserva, Gramona Imperial, or a non-vintage Crémant d'Alsace for those seeking traditional method sparkling with similar lees-aging characteristics.