In the diverse world of sparkling wines, where dry Brut styles often dominate, Roger Goulart Demi Sec Millésimé offers a delightful, slightly sweeter, and vintage-specific expression of Cava. Roger Goulart, established in 1882 in Catalonia’s Penedès region, is a pioneer in traditional method Cava, with extensive underground cellars ensuring exceptional aging.
Understanding the Name: Demi Sec & Millésimé
Demi Sec
This signifies a noticeable sweetness, typically 32-50 grams of sugar per liter. Crucially, a good Demi Sec balances this sweetness with lively acidity, resulting in a rich, approachable character rather than cloying. It’s ideal for those preferring less dry sparkling wines or for specific food pairings.
Millésimé
Meaning “vintage,” this indicates the wine is made solely from grapes of a single, exceptional harvest. Unlike non-vintage blends, a Millésimé Cava expresses the unique qualities of that specific year, often implying longer aging and a more complex profile.
The Blend, Terroir, and Winemaking
Roger Goulart Demi Sec Millésimé is typically crafted from classic Cava grapes: Xarel-lo, Macabeo, and Parellada. Sourced from Penedès vineyards at medium-to-high altitudes (300-700 meters), these grapes benefit from a special microclimate, ensuring optimal ripeness and acidity. The winery also emphasizes sustainable, increasingly organic, vineyard practices.
Production strictly follows the traditional method. Grapes are harvested carefully, pressed gently, and undergo primary fermentation. The key to Roger Goulart’s quality is the second fermentation in the bottle, followed by long aging in their deep underground cellars. These “caves,” 30 meters deep at a constant 14ºC, allow the Cava to mature slowly on its lees. This extended contact (minimum 18 months for Demi Sec Millésimé) builds complex aromas and flavors of brioche and toast, adding richness and character.
Tasting Notes: Sweetness Meets Freshness
This Cava typically displays a pale yellow hue with fine, persistent bubbles.
Aroma
Expect fresh white fruits (peach, pear, apple), subtle floral hints, and delicate notes of yeast and toasted bread from bottle aging.
Palate
A beautiful balance between sweetness and a vibrant acidity. It feels smooth and fresh, not heavy, with fruit notes complemented by hints of brioche, leading to a pleasant, lingering finish.
Versatile Food Pairings
While naturally suited for desserts, its acidity makes Roger Goulart Demi Sec Millésimé surprisingly versatile:
Desserts: Excellent with fruit tarts, light cakes, or pastries.
Spicy Dishes: The sweetness can beautifully temper the heat of Asian cuisine.
Soft Cheeses: A delightful match for creamy, mild cheeses.
Aperitif: A unique and welcoming start for those who prefer a slightly sweeter aperitif.
Final Sips: A Versatile Cava Experience
The Roger Goulart Demi Sec Millésimé truly highlights the winery’s commitment to patience and quality. While its inherent sweetness naturally complements desserts, its vibrant acidity makes it surprisingly versatile, pairing beautifully with spicy dishes or soft cheeses, and even serving as a distinctive aperitif. This Cava invites you to explore a different side of sparkling wine – one where elegance meets approachable sweetness. It’s a delightful choice for those seeking a nuanced and rewarding bubbly experience, demonstrating Roger Goulart’s mastery of Cava tradition.
