Born on October 19, 1925, Josep Ferrer is regarded as one of the most influential figures in the history of the Spanish sparkling wine industry. As a member of Freixenet’s founding family’s second generation, he leaves a remarkable legacy. The brand was established in 1914 by his parents, Pedro Ferrer Bosch and Dolors Sala Vivé, in Sant Sadurní d'Anoia.
In 1959, Ferrer took over as managing director from his mother and sisters, who had rebuilt the company after the Spanish Civil War, during which they lost both Ferrer’s father and his older brother. Ferrer ushered in a new era for the company and, in 1978, was appointed President of Freixenet. His entrepreneurial vision helped establish Spanish sparkling wine and Cava on a global scale, and his spirit of innovation shaped the industry. Under Ferrer's leadership, Freixenet became the best-selling Cava, with international expansion playing a crucial role in its influence on the Cava sector.
Ferrer’s leadership at Freixenet is marked by several key milestones, including the expansion of the Sant Sadurní d'Anoia facility into the world’s largest Cava production site, increased sales, and especially the global growth of Freixenet’s Carta Nevada. He also pioneered the creation of Cordon Negro, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, and greatly advanced Freixenet's brand through innovative advertising campaigns.
Although Ferrer stepped back from the day-to-day operations in 1999, he remained closely connected to the company as Honorary President and as a member of the “Council of Wisdom,” alongside his sisters. His influence was also felt in 2018 when he played a significant role in the merger of Henkell and Freixenet. In a recent statement, Henkell Freixenet mourned his death, reflecting the deep loss felt across the business.
