Winemaker Notes
Mineral-accented orange, lemon and fennel aromas are complicated by notes of honeysuckle and white pepper. A sappy sharply focused midweight with good bite to its citrus and herbal flavors. Shows vibrant citrus and mineral notes on the long, tangy finish.
With hundreds of white grape varieties to choose from, winemakers have the freedom to create a virtually endless assortment of blended white wines. In many European regions, strict laws are in place determining the set of varieties that may be used in white wine blends, but in the New World, experimentation is permitted and encouraged. Blending can be utilized to enhance balance or create complexity, lending different layers of flavors and aromas. For example, a variety that creates a soft and full-bodied white wine blend, like Chardonnay, would do well combined with one that is more fragrant and naturally high in acidity. Sometimes small amounts of a particular variety are added to boost color or aromatics. Blending can take place before or after fermentation, with the latter, more popular option giving more control to the winemaker over the final qualities of the wine.
A wine region in Catalonia on the northeastern coast of Spain, Costers del Segre obtained DO status in 1986. Since then, the region has experienced many changes, including the addition of new international grape varieties alongside traditional native varieties, the adoption of modern California winemaking methods and the creation of sub-regions.
Both cooperative and private bodegas have incorporated these changes leading to a series of wines with great personal character and uniqueness. Some of them are considered among the most unusual in Spain, their styles based on thoughtful blending of local grapes with recently planted French varieties. And thanks to the climate and soil conditions, there is also plenty of potential for future development.
The principal white grape varieties of the region are Macabeo, Parellada, Xarel-lo, Chardonnay, Garnacha Blanca, Albariño, Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc. The principal red grape varieties include Garnacha Tinta, Ull de Llebre (Tempranillo), Monastrell, Trepat, Samsó, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir and Syrah.