Freixenet Cordon Negro Extra Dry Cava Champagne
Freixenet Cordon Negro Extra Dry is a 750mL Spanish Cava from Catalunya, made by the traditional bottle-fermentation method from the three classic Penedes Cava varieties — Macabeo, Xarel-lo and Parellada. Introduced in 1990, it sits a step softer than the house Brut. Freixenet's own sites disagree on its alcohol (11.5–12%), so no ABV is stated here pending a label check. It is available to order online at Del Mesa Liquor.
- Size: 750mL
- Blend: Macabeo, Xarel-lo and Parellada (both official sources agree)
- Dosage: Extra Dry, 15 g/L (freixenet.com)
- Method: Traditional method — second fermentation in bottle, then riddling and disgorgement
- Origin: D.O. Cava, Catalunya, Spain
The Softer Side of the Black Bottle
Cordon Negro Extra Dry joined Freixenet's black-bottle line in 1990, aimed at drinkers who like their Cava a shade rounder: the same traditional Penedes trio and bottle fermentation as the Brut, with an Extra Dry dosage smoothing the edges. Browse the house on the Freixenet vendor page or see more sparkling wine and Champagne.
Tasting Notes
From the producer: peach, melon and candied citrus with an earthy, fruity character and a long, smooth finish (US house notes); freixenet.com adds fresh fruit and citrus with a light, clean, elegant aftertaste and a balance of acidity and sweetness.
How to Enjoy
Serve well chilled with appetisers, creamy cheeses, seafood and lightly spiced dishes — the touch of dosage is an asset at the table.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Extra Dry mean on a Cava? Counterintuitively, Extra Dry is a little sweeter than Brut — freixenet.com lists this bottling at 15 g/L dosage — giving a rounder, softer sip while still drinking essentially dry.
What grapes are in Cordon Negro Extra Dry? Macabeo, Xarel-lo and Parellada, the three traditional Cava varieties of the Penedes.
When was it introduced? 1990, per the producer's US house — as the softer companion to the original Cordon Negro Brut in the frosted black bottle.
Classic Catalan Cava with a gentler edge — get Freixenet Cordon Negro Extra Dry online from Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.