Moxie Vino

Cava vs Prosecco: what's the difference?

Cava is a Spanish sparkling wine made the same way as Champagne, so it tastes drier, more citrusy and a bit toasty, while Prosecco is an Italian sparkler that is fruitier and softer, so pick Cava for food and a Champagne-like feel on a budget and Prosecco for easy, fruity sipping.

Cava
Prosecco

These are the two great cheap bubbles, and both usually land under $15. The big difference is method: Cava gets its fizz in each bottle like Champagne does, while Prosecco does it in a big tank. That makes Cava taste crisper and more savory, and Prosecco taste like fresh fruit.

Side by side

CavaProsecco
Where it's fromSpain, mostly CataloniaNortheast Italy
GrapeMacabeo, Xarel-lo and ParelladaGlera
How the bubbles get inIn each bottle, like ChampagneIn large steel tanks
Tastes likeLemon, green apple, a little toast and almondPear, apple, melon, flowers
SweetnessUsually Brut, so dryOften Extra Dry, so a touch sweet
PriceAbout $8–15About $12–20
Best withTapas, fried food, salty snacksBrunch, spritzes, fruit, light appetizers

When to pick Cava

Pick Cava when you want something that drinks like Champagne for a third of the price, especially with food.

  • Freixenet Cordon Negro Brut

    about $11

    Macabeo, Xarel-lo and ParelladaGood buy

    The black bottle you see everywhere. Crisp, clean and very fairly priced.

  • Segura Viudas Brut Reserva

    about $10

    Macabeo, Xarel-lo and Parellada

    A little toastier than Freixenet. A real bargain for a big party.

When to pick Prosecco

Pick Prosecco when you want soft, fruity bubbles for brunch, spritzes or sipping on their own.

  • La Marca Prosecco

    about $16

    GleraGood buy

    Soft, fruity and a touch sweet. The easiest bottle of bubbles to say yes to.

  • Mionetto Prosecco Brut

    about $13

    GleraGood buy

    Drier Prosecco that sits closer to Cava. Good for mimosas.

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Last checked 2026-10-04.