‘Excelencia’ – A taste of kosher bubbly

By Erin Philips

SAN DIEGO — Since releasing its first cava in 1914, Freixenet has become a leading producer of the sparkling wine from Spain. A family-owned company with four generations of winemaking experience, Freixenet is known for making cavas in the traditional method. After a century in business, the sparkling wine house introduced its first kosher offering in time for Passover last year.

“Excelencia Kosher Brut” is made with Macabeo grapes, which are gently pressed and aged for 15 months. Tasting notes from the label list “intense aromas of ripe pear,” “green apple,” and “white flower petals” and a “refreshing” taste with “crisp acidity balancing long and elegant floral flavors.”

With the holiday here again, it was the perfect opportunity to break out a bottle and try it. During Sunday brunch, a group of tasters had high hopes for the kosher “Excelencia,” given the quality and history of the producer, but the wine didn’t quite live up to expectations.

Upon opening, the cava’s bubbles were lackluster, which was the first sign that this might not be as ‘excellent’ as advertised. Tasters did note hints of pear and flower petals on the nose, but the wine was generally agreed to be “bland and unimaginative” on the palate with an odd aftertaste.

One taster commented, “I am a normally a Freixenet fan. This one was not dry enough to qualify as a Brut. Too fruity – not enough effervescence.”

After corking and chilling for longer, the bubbles did gain a bit more zest, but the taste remained the same. “Excelencia Kosher Brut” was deemed not enjoyable enough to drink on its own, and would better serve as a mixer for sparkling kosher cocktails. Mimosas anyone?

Rating (1-5 scale): 2

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Philips is a freelance writer who specializes in coverage of the dramatic and culinary arts.  Your comment may be sent to erin.philips@sdjewishworld.com, or posted on this website, per the instructions below.

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