Costers del Segre – “the banks of the Segre” - is a wine region in the northeast Spain. Most vineyards are situated close to the riverbed, although some sit an an elevation of more than 1200 feet above sea level. These sites are cooler than those in the valley, so varieties such as Macabeo and Paralleda (for Cava) are planted here, as are Chardonnay, Riesling and Albarinho (Albariño). For the warmer areas, the dominant grapes are Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Tempranillo.

While part of the area is dedicated to producing Cava, the reds are the most famous; these are classified into Crianza, Reserva and Gran Reserva, as with Rioja; the Crianza are the youngest, lightest reds, while the Gran Reserva, aged for a minimum of 36 months, are the most complex and ageworthy of these reds. The whites are ideal with shellfish, while the reds work well with a variety of foods, ranging from paella to grilled pork and beef. (Wine/Appellations)