With more than four and a half centuries of history, the iconic cava firm Codorníu has not only managed to preserve its essence, but it has also reinvented itself to lead the industry from a conscious perspective and with a commitment to the land, biodiversity, and people. Today, it stands out as a prime example of how to turn a centuries-old wine legacy into a model of responsible success based on excellence, sustainability, and innovation. 

Innovative tradition

The year 1551 marks the origin of the oldest winery in Europe, but its contemporary history is clearly defined by innovation. In 1872, Josep Raventós created the first bottle of cava in Spain by using the so-called traditional method, while at the end of the 19th century Manuel Raventós took the leap to large-scale production, giving the company a great boost, whilst also becoming a pioneer in advertising. 

In the 21st century, in 2002, Codorníu created the world’s first rosé cava, and in 2010 it introduced the first white cava made from Pinot Noir. A few years later, in 2017, its vineyards received the Paraje Calificado distinction for the exceptional quality of their land, and in 2020 they began the transition to organic farming to better care for the planet. 

Today, they export wines and cavas with a unique and timeless flavour to more than 50 countries, delighting all palates. Over 18 generations of winemakers, the family—a lineage that dates back to the 17th century with the marriage between the heiress of the winery, Anna Codorníu, and the winemaker Miquel Raventós—has managed to blend tradition and innovation, keeping alive a winemaking culture rooted in the Penedès and also seeking international projection. 

Giving value to the land

One milestone that exemplifies Codorníu’s commitment to sustainability and excellence is the full organic conversion of its vineyards, achieved in 2024, a year ahead of schedule. This change is a true statement of intent, placing respect for the land at the heart of all operations. With nearly 2,900 hectares of organic vineyards and over 300 winegrowing families involved, the Raventós Codorníu Group is well aware that its value proposition is closely tied to the land and it is committed to preserving it. 

Their philosophy, summed up by the motto “Giving value to the land,” results in concrete actions ranging from biodiversity protection to multi-year contracts with suppliers, as well as ongoing technical advice to ensure responsible farming practices. This symbiosis between the company and the region not only boosts the local economy, but also winegrowing culture as a living heritage. 

But sustainability goes beyond cultivation. The process of producing their Cavas, such as the iconic Anna de Codorníu, takes place in accordance with principles of efficiency and circularity. 100% of the electricity comes from renewable sources, and environmental management models have been adopted to reduce their ecological footprint. 

For people and the planet 

As market leaders, they strive to remain so responsibly. Ever since CEO Sergio Fuster’s arrival in 2020, the company has embraced a corporate culture based on humanity, diversity, and empowerment, with a mission that goes beyond mere financial gain. Well-being and personal development programmes have been implemented for employees, and initiatives to promote female leadership have been launched. Raventós Codorníu has been recognized by Forbes as one of the best companies to work for, something which stresses the human quality of the project. 

The project’s coherence is conveyed throughout the value chain thanks to the group’s Code of Ethics, which requires its suppliers and subcontractors to also meet its demanding social and environmental responsibility criteria. 

With a brand portfolio committed to authenticity, transparency, and excellence, Raventós Codorníu has established itself as a paradigm of how respect for the land, innovation, and human value can build a sustainable, long-lasting business model. Their success is not only down to the record sales figures achieved in recent years, but also their positive impact, allowing consumers to enjoy their wines and Cavas in the knowledge that, beyond celebrating life, they are contributing to a better future. Raventós Codorníu not only aspires to be the best wine company in the world, but the best wine company for the world.