Freixenet Elyssia Gran Cuvée Brut Cava

Alana L rated this wine as 92/100 with the following review:

This week’s pick as part of a 34 wines in 34 weeks comparative challenge is Freixenet Elyssia Gran Cuvée Brut from the Mediterranean Coast of Spain.

40% Chardonnay, 30% Macabeo, 20% Parellada and 10% Pinot Noir it’s produced as a ‘blanc de noir’ (where the red grapes are pressed and the juice is allowed to ferment after being separated from the skins and resulting in a white wine that is referred to as a “blanc de noirs” or a white wine from dark grapes). It’s a bit sweeter than my preferred Extra Brut but ‘dry enough to my taste’ still, i.e. not erring towards the sweetness of an Extra Seco. Notes of ripe citrus fruit, apple, nectarine and even chamomile (hmmm, chamomile… could sparkling wine be a nighttime herbal infusion or ‘tisane’? I wonder…) on the nose and palate with the higher percentages of Chardonnay and Macabeo bringing crisp acidity, freshness, rich texture and body.

Paired beautifully with a starter plate of fontina cheese and lardons stuffed shishito peppers, dry French saucisson and anchovy stuffed olives.

Mike Craymer rated this wine as 94/100

Carolyn Hetke rated this wine as 90/100 with the following review:

This sparkling was a light gold in the glass. The bubbles were a bit coarse but there was a lovely fresh, lively, citrus profile to it on the palate. It is sturdy enough to pair with stronger foods, cheeses, meats. Medium finish. A great bubbly for lunch, dinner, appetizers!

Andrea Shapiro rated this wine as 91/100 with the following review:

Light and pleasant bubbles dance in this cava. Crisp notes of green apple, pomelo citrus and toasted brioche notes are vibrant. Soft, lemony flavours enliven, with a delicate splash of salt on the finish. Bright acidity with a hint of toasted almonds persisting into the delicate finish. A great pairing with and soft cheeses such as triple cream Brie and Camembert. - tasted November 2017

Cora Beaulieu rated this wine as 90/100 with the following review:

This is a Cava with a lovely mix of citrus, green apple and fresh toasty bread notes. Palate is chock-full of flavor. It’s a graceful sparkling wine that delivers large on aromas of baked apple, stone fruit, lemon and orange zest, honeysuckle, toasted almonds, and a hint of minerality. Good traces of fresh lemon, pear yet slightly salty. Finish is medium+ with nutty and salty tastes. Perfect for any occasion.

Cherie Cole rated this wine as 91/100 with the following review:

Bright with an abundance of bubbles, this glorious Cava would make a perfect pairing with a number of dishes and celebrations. Lemon-biscuit, honey and asian pear dance on the palate. Affordable and delicious. Tasted November 27, 2016.

Jon Steeves rated this wine as 90/100 with the following review:

This is fantastic cava, with notes of green apple, tart citrus peel, baked brioche. A great value bubbly, made in the traditional method sty. Crowd pleaser and value priced. Enjoy this with tapas, apperitifs, on it own at any time of day. Tasted Nov 2016 - rated 90/100

Melanie Aubert rated this wine as 87/100 with the following review:

Very interesting aromas: brioche, lemon, and a bit of surprising tropical fruit! Great bubbles that dance in your mouth.

Rachelle O'Connor rated this wine as 90/100 with the following review:

This Cava has notes of citrus, lime and buttered toast - lots of bubbles, zingy on the palate. Lovely on its own or with any lighter fare - the bottle is classy and eye catching. Great value.

Lori Kilmartin WSET3 rated this wine as 92/100 with the following review:

A mix of local grapes, Macabeo and Parellada blended with Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. If you don't want to splurge on a champagne this is your bottle to buy. Made in the traditional method it has lovely toasty aromas with floral aromas (honeysuckle) and fresh stone fruit - green apple and fresh pear. Serve to your guests on arrival for a fancy dinner or it would also make a nice hostess gift. Tasted November 27, 2016.

Douglas McMillan rated this wine as 92/100 with the following review:

An extremely fresh, crisp, and tasty Cava, presenting aromas of apricot, green apple, and biscuit. The taste is brightly acidic and adds fresh lime to the equation as well. This is a perfect wine to have before dinner, with green salads, or all on its own. I also find the bottle and label very 'classy', making this an exceptional idea for a hostess gift, especially or those that appreciate a great sparkling wine.