The M. Chevallier Carte Noire Brut Cava is a $7.99 Trader Joe’s import wine. Back in 2019, CWF reviewed this Cava, and it sold for $5.99 then.
The Story
The M. Chevallier Carte Noire Brut Cava might seem like some thrown-together bulk wine cava, but it’s not.
The back label shows it was made at the Codorníu facilities in eastern Spain. Codorníu winery dates back to the 1500s and is now part of the Raventos Codorníu family of wines. They are Spain’s oldest winery and oldest Cava producer.
Carte Noire in Champagne indicates the Bubbly was produced with only Red grapes. I could not find any documentation indicating that the grapes used here are anything other than the 3 grapes traditionally used: Parallada, Macabeo, and Xarel-lo, which are White grapes. Traditional Champagne-style wine does not typically have much skin contact, so even Red grapes can appear clear.
This is a Guarda-level wine, meaning the second fermentation lasts a minimum of 9 months, though it often goes longer.
The alcohol content is 11.5%.
The M. Chevallier Carte Noire Brut Cava Tasting Notes
The color is a mix of silver and gold. The nose is lemon, apple, and crusty bread, Anjou pear, and stone fruit. The M. Chevallier Carte Noire Brut Cava is a full flavored, balanced Sparkling wine.
This Cava tastes like- here is where I am confused. I think Red grapes may have been used. This bubbly is hitting my palate differently than the Cavas I am used to. Is it the power of suggestion, or do I trust my Palate? The flavors are not sweet red hard candy, Green apple, a slap of spice, brioche, and nectarine.
The acidity is balanced, and this Bubbly shows good length.
The Summary
- The M. Chevallier Carte Noire Brut Cava is a tasty, well-made, inexpensive Cava.
- It sips well above its price tag.
- The dictionary should have the M. Chevallier Carte Noire Brut Cava as the Bubbly under Everyday Bubbly.
