The 2017 Colet-Navazos Extra Brut Reserva is a brilliantly original and deeply complex sparkling wine born from the collaboration between Sergi Colet in Penedès and the legendary Sherry specialists Equipo Navazos. Produced from organically farmed Xarel·lo and Chardonnay grown on limestone-rich vineyards in Penedès, the wine is made using the traditional method and aged on lees for around four years before disgorgement. What makes this cuvée uniquely compelling is the subtle influence of Jerez: flor yeast is incorporated during secondary fermentation, while the dosage includes small amounts of mature Manzanilla and other La Bota Sherries, giving the wine its signature saline and savoury complexity. The 2017 vintage is especially energetic and finely structured, combining Mediterranean warmth with remarkable chalky tension and precision.
The nose reveals preserved lemon, green apple and white peach layered alongside toasted almond, brioche and delicate flor-driven savoury notes, giving the wine extraordinary aromatic lift and complexity. On the palate, it is light to medium-bodied with vibrant acidity, a fine persistent mousse and a tightly wound saline mineral core. Layers of citrus peel, orchard fruit and subtle sherry-like nuttiness unfold with exceptional freshness and texture, finishing long, dry and beautifully savoury with remarkable finesse and originality. Luis Gutiérrez famously described the wines as “Champagne with a Sherry spirit,” while critics consistently highlight the Reserva’s chalky tension, integrated mousse and remarkable complexity with bottle age.
Ben’s Recommendation:
The 2017 Colet-Navazos Extra Brut Reserva is a world-class Spanish sparkling wine — saline, complex and beautifully refined with extraordinary freshness and individuality. Perfect with oysters, jamón Ibérico, anchovies, grilled prawns, seafood paella or hard cheeses. A fascinating bottle for Champagne lovers looking for something truly distinctive. Enjoy now through 2034+.
