They are very much like French champagnes at a fraction of the cost. As a matter of fact, most of them are produced by the same method, methode champenois, with slightly different grapes. 99% of cava produced in Spain comes from the French bordering area of Catalonia in the far northeastern part of the country. The grapes traditionally used to make cava are macabeo, xarello and parellada.

These make cava a very light, white, fruity, perfumed wine that is supremely drinkable on its own or accompanying lighter dishes.

One of the most popular sparkling wines in the US, Freixenet, is actually a Spanish cava. It accounts for over 60% of cava sold in this country. This wine is highly recommended. I haven't had a bad one yet.