National sales are increasing
This industry pickaxe surpasses the crisis caused by the pandemic and signals a strategy to finish the year much like last year before Covid. Data available through September shows that the kava denomination of origin sold 238 million bottles. That implies last year’s figure rose by 3.3% and nearly matches the growth pace seen in 2019 after two exceptional years driven by Covid related disruptions: a contraction in 2020 followed by a slower rebound in 2021. [Citation: DO Cava statistics]
Javier Pagés, President of DO Cava, notes that numerous factors complicate the current economic climate, yet he highlights the product’s strength in weathering the broader situation. He emphasizes that cava remains a source of celebration and joy, even as the market faces inflation and supply pressures. [Citation: DO Cava interview]
Despite acknowledging that the price of this sparkling wine has risen roughly in line with inflation, about 7 percent as of November according to the national statistics office, the industry is optimistic about the year end. The projection for 2022 is around 245 million bottles, maintaining the 3 percent growth recorded through September versus the previous year. [Citation: INE price data]
Pagés adds a cautious but hopeful note, asserting that if activity continues to grow, the year could close with a maintained increase compared with the prior year. The consumer’s desire to celebrate remains a key driver, he says. [Citation: DO Cava forward outlook]
National sales trend and market resilience
The September data provide an early snapshot of performance across the year. Sales from this information align with a higher storage period for aged stock, showing a gain of more than 18 months in the breeding cycle and a 20% year over year increase. This is consistent with the DO Cava mission to grow while increasing value for the market. [Citation: DO Cava market analysis]
Estimates indicate that the denomination represents a meaningful share of this year’s domestic growth. Although exports still exceed domestic sales in total, more than 70% of shipments are directed abroad. Among the top ten export markets, five are expanding while five are contracting. In the first group are Germany, Sweden, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and Russia, while the second group includes France, Japan, the United Kingdom, Belgium, and the United States. The United States remains a key market for Spanish cava, ranking as one of the most significant destinations outside of Europe. [Citation: DO Cava export performance]
In the Canadian and American markets, cava has continued to gain visibility as consumers seek premium sparkling wine options for celebrations and seasonal gatherings. Producers emphasize consistent quality, regional character, and the ability to pair cava with diverse cuisines common in North America. Analysts note that sustained growth will depend on value perception, distribution efficiency, and effective marketing during peak consumption periods. [Citation: North American market commentary]
Overall, the DO Cava system remains committed to fostering growth that benefits both producers and consumers. The year’s momentum, coupled with a strategic approach to pricing and promotion, suggests a continued trajectory of resilience and incremental sales in key markets across Canada and the United States. [Citation: DO Cava strategic outlook]