Discover the Gastronomic Versatility of D.O. Cava

If you’re a food lover looking to elevate your dining experience, look no further than D.O. Cava—Spain’s iconic sparkling wine crafted using the traditional method. Born under the Mediterranean sun, Cava combines freshness, complexity, and elegance, making it one of the most versatile wines in the world. Its secret lies in a range of aging styles that cater to every occasion: Cava de Guarda (9 months) – crisp and vibrant, ideal for light bites and brunch.  Reserva (18 months) – layered and expressive, perfect for spiced dishes.  Gran Reserva (30 months) – rich and structured, a match for indulgent mains. Paraje Calificado (36 months) – the pinnacle of refinement, suited to luxurious pairings like lobster or foie gras.

Recent research by flavour expert François Chartier confirms what sommeliers have long known: Cava’s molecular harmony makes it a natural partner for global cuisines—from Japanese sushi to Spanish tapas, Middle Eastern mezze, and even British fish and chips. Its lively acidity and fine bubbles cut through richness, while its nuanced aromas complement spices and herbs beautifully.

The Dishpatch Experience: Caribbean Flavours at Home (£80, £69 for Supper Club Members from DISHPATCH)

To showcase this versatility, I paired two exceptional Cavas with a Dishpatch meal kit from celebrated British Antiguan chef Andi Oliver. Known for her infectious energy and bold creativity, Andi is a familiar face as the host of BBC’s Great British Menu and the force behind Wadadli Kitchen, a cultural hub that celebrates Caribbean heritage through food, music, and storytelling. Her first cookbook, The Pepperpot Diaries, dives deep into the flavours and traditions of the Caribbean, challenging the idea that its cuisine is one-dimensional.

As Andi says: “People often think about Caribbean food in quite a one-dimensional way, but there are so many islands and so many different flavours to enjoy. My menus are an expression of how I experience Caribbean food, and I want to share that with everybody.”

Her Dishpatch menu is a vibrant celebration of those flavours:

• Ginger Beer marinated pork neck with rum and ginger glaze – tender, slow-cooked pork infused with warming spice and a whisper of sweetness from the ginger beer, finished with a glossy rum glaze that adds depth and Caribbean soul.
• Fried plantain, Callaloo and roti – golden slices of plantain with caramelised edges, served alongside soft, flaky roti for scooping up rich sauces.
• Andi’s luscious mac ’n’ cheese – creamy, indulgent, and unapologetically comforting, with a hint of Caribbean seasoning that makes it sing.
• Butterscotch bread and butter pudding – a decadent finale Caribbean cuisine is bold, layered, and deeply aromatic—qualities that demand wines with freshness and complexity. 

Here’s how the pairings worked:

Vilarnau Rosé Delicat Reserva Guarda Superior (£13 from OCADO)

Pale pink with fine, persistent bubbles. Aromas of wild strawberries, raspberries, and rose petals mingle with subtle hints of Mediterranean herbs. On the palate, it’s fresh and elegant, with a delicate fruit core and a crisp finish.  Perfect with the ginger beer-marinated pork neck and fried plantain—the berry notes complement the sweetness of plantain, while the acidity lifts the richness of the pork.

Pere Ventura Tresor Gran Reserva 2021 (£21 from The Great Wine Company)

Golden hues with refined bubbles. Complex aromas of toasted brioche, citrus peel, and almond, layered with subtle floral notes. The palate is creamy yet vibrant, with a long, nutty finish. Ideal for Andi’s mac ’n’ cheese and the butterscotch bread and butter pudding—the wine’s depth and toasty character balance the richness of the cheese and echo the dessert’s caramel tones.   This is a stunning CAVA and in fact worked with all elements of the menu, standing tall alongside the spiciness of the pork.

Pairing these vibrant dishes with Cava proves Andi’s point—and elevates the experience to something truly memorable.

Why not bring this celebration home? Dishpatch delivers menus from top UK chefs, ready to heat and plate, and you can pair it with a range of D.O. Cava. It’s the ultimate way to explore flavour harmony without leaving your kitchen. For more pairing ideas, visit D.O. CAVA's website.