D.O. Cava reports record sales in 2022 with 249 million bottles sold worldwide, the highest numbers the regulatory board has seen in its history.

"Despite the economic hardships experienced in 2021, 2022 was a year of recovery that yielded very positive results," said D.O. Cava president, Javier Pagès.

Export sales accounted for 69% of Cava's total sales, with Germany maintaining its status as Cava's most important international market (over 2%), followed by the United States, Belgium and the United Kingdom. Sweden climbed for the first time into the ranking of the top five global markets (+35%), followed by Japan (+3.5%). Also significant was the double-digit growth in emerging markets such as Switzerland (+50%), Brazil (+24%), Estonia (+22%), and Lithuania (+22%).

Additionally, Cava's domestic sales increased significantly (+13.2%) to 77 million bottles sold in 2022. Most notable growth in terms of both value and volume was in on-premise channels, highlighting the preference of consumers for enjoying Cava in bars and restaurants.

Off-premise channels also saw growth, though to a lesser extent, thanks to the return to in-person shopping. Compared to other sparkling wines sold off-premise, Cava was the only one to experience growth by volume (Cava +4.3%, Champagne -12.9%, other traditional method sparkling wines -8.7%, and tank method sparkling wines -4.7%) and the highest growth by value (Cava +10.5%; Champagne -9%; other traditional method sparkling wines +2.1%, and tank method sparkling wines +0.7%).

D.O. Cava attributes the sales growth to the region's commitment to the introduction of Cava de Guarda Superior, important zoning and segmentation changes made in 2021, and its continued focus on sustainability.

Sales of Cavas de Guarda Superior, which stipulates a minimum of 18 months lees aging, continues its upward trajectory with 13.22% sales growth and demonstrates consumer preference for the category's high quality levels and distinct styles achieved by extended periods of lees aging. The number of bottles produced and labelled organic currently exceeds 32 million, showcasing the strong demand in a category that is in a state of transition for many winemakers.

This growth is expected to continue with all Guarda Superior Cavas required to be 100% organic by the year 2025, and with the introduction of the new quality seals--indicating product segment and place of origin--that are now available in market to provide consumers a more informed and enjoyable buying experience. The Cava Academy program, which now includes over 400 Cava-certified professionals and educators around the world, will also help drive the D.O.'s goal of expanding Cava's footprint through trade and consumer education in Spain and in key markets around the world.