Laietà Gran Reserva 2021 Brut Nature Sparkling

Summer may no longer be Spain’s most popular season, at least for those seeking relief from the sweltering heat. This year, temperatures soared as early as May, and even the country’s cooler northern regions recorded highs well above 30°C. Sparkling wines are always a safe choice in such conditions, but where can you find one that combines freshness with genuine complexity?

Just a few kilometres from Barcelona, Alella is a small but distinctive Cava enclave, quite different from the larger wine-growing area of Penedès further inland. The contrast stems not only from its proximity to the Mediterrean, but also from its soils. While limestone dominates much of Penedès, vineyards here are rooted in decomposed granite, locally known as sauló. Virtually devoid of lime and organic matter, these soils contribute to wines with naturally high acidity.

In this region named Serra de Mar, under the DO Cava's new zoning system, the work of the Pujol-Busquets family stands out. They were pioneers of organic viticulture within the appellation and also produce sulphite-free wines at a separate winery on their beautiful estate, a natural amphitheatre overlooking the Mediterranean.

Laietà Gran Reserva is a blend of Pansa Blanca (Xarel·lo), Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Aged for 49 months, it comfortably exceeds the 30-month minimum required for the Gran Reserva category while retaining a fresh and vibrant profile. 

The 2021 vintage was marked by drought, which reduced yields but ensured excellent grape health. Cooler temperaturas in mid-September benefited the later-ripening varieties, helping preserve acidity while enhancing concentration. The result is a sparkling wine that prioritises tension over creaminess, offering notes of toasted bread, ripe citrus and dried herbs. Linear and precise, with finely integrated bubbles, it finishes on a savoury saline note that immediately invites another sip.

The name Laietà refers to the ancient Iberian people who inhabited Catalonia’s central coastline. More recently, it has acquired additional significance as Art Laietà d'Alta Alella became the new umbrella identity encompassing the various projects of the Pujol-Busquets family. Within DO Cava, the winery holds the Integral Producer seal, which certifies that it vinifies 100% of its own grapes. Production is limited to premium Cava de Guarda Superior, including Reserva, Gran Reserva and Paraje Calificado categories.

Laietà occupies the middle ground within the estate’s sparkling wine range, siting between the Mirgin Reservas and the single-vineyard Paraje Calificado and extended-ageing cavas. As part of the premium collection, it is presented in a stylish, long-necked bottle, although its dimensions can make storage in standard wine cabinets and domestic fridges somewhat ackward. Fortunately, the wine more than compensates for this minor inconvenience. Equally commendable is the level of detail provided on the label, including the disgorgement date and the corresponding ageing period.

12% abv.
€28 
Disgorgement date: 13/05/2026
Score: 93