Codorniu

   Cordorniu was founded 1926, though it derives from a family business established in 1551. Specializing in wines, brandy and brandy spirits, it is a subsidiary of UNIDECO (Barcelona). Cordorniu is mainly known for its brand of sparkling wine, called cava, which it has been producing with the Méthode Champenoise since 1872. Its wine-cellars are the largest in the world, and were declared a national monument in 1976. Employing a workforce of just over 400 people, Cordorniu's total annual sales in 1996 were worth 22,220m pesetas, of which export sales occupied 30 percent. The group reorganized in 1994 and Codorniu S.A. absorbed Vinícola Rodel S.A. (sparkling) and Bodegas Masia Bach S.A. (still).

   EAMONN RODGERS