Valentine’s Day is the perfect time for sparkling wine. And, Cava is great choice.

These two wonderful Cavas are from Vilarnau in Barcelona Spain. The name comes from the old Vilarnau castle which can be found on the banks of the river Anoia and which formed part of the Subirats castle, where the vineyards can be found today. The winery is a small, artisanal, hand crafted Cava house located outside of Barcelona that dates back to 1949. Made in the traditional méthode champenoise, the Vilarnau bottles honor their Catalan roots with wrapping that reflects the beautiful avant-­garde imagery of Antoni Gaudí.

• Vilarnau Brut Reserva NV ($15.99) This Brut Cava is made from three varietals: 50% Macabeo, 35% Parellada, 15% Xarel.lo. Each varietal is fermented separately. The first fermentation takes place over 30 days before the wines are blended. The second fermentation occurs the traditional way, in the bottle, where the yeast turns the wines into Cava with its characteristic bubbles. On the palate, this Brut Cava has flavors of apple, lemon, and white pears along with bright acidity. It is classified as a "Reserva" because it was aged for more than 15 months in the bottle.

• Vilarnau Brut Rosé Delicat Reserva NV ($16.99) This rosé Cava is produced from 85% Garnacha and 15% Pinot Noir. They are fermented separately in stainless steel tanks for 30 days. They are then blended and bottled where they undergo the second fermentation which takes about six weeks. It then stays in contact with the yeast for at least 15 months in the bottle during the aging process which qualifies this Cava as a “Reserva.” This Cava has delicate flavors of ripe strawberries, raspberries and blueberries. It’s smooth, creamy and refreshing.

Vilarnau cavas are imported by González Byass USA, distributed nationally at great prices and are this week’s Behind the Cork™ Wines of the Week.

Happy Valentine’s Day and “Cheers” to raising a delicious glass of Cava!

Disclosure of Wine Sample Submission: I received these samples at no cost for review. The opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Samples Provided by González Byass via Donna White Communications