The Counoise grape is a largely unknown yet highly valuable grape variety borne out of the French vineyards. The subtle contribution of this varietal is especially pivotal in the creation of the celebrated Châteauneuf-du-Pape blends originating from the Rhône wine region in Southern France.
Counoise grape typically has a dark blue or purplish-translucent skin, giving its wine a profound colour. The wines from this grape feature a moderate to high level of acidity and lower tannins, which make them excellent for blending purposes. Essentially, it is often included in blends to add freshness and to balance the high alcohol content in other Rhône varieties such as Grenache.
The wine produced from Counoise can be impressively aromatic, thriving with rich notes of red fruits like cherry, raspberry, and cranberry, sometimes coupled with exotic spices or wild herbs. Despite its vibrant fruity character and near-mystic spice palette, Counoise holds a light to medium body, with a pleasantly crisp finish.
While Counoise grapes are a native to France, they are expansively cultivated in California's winemaking regions as well. Winegrowers there have ventured as far as producing single varietal Counoise wines, which, anomalously, are rarely encountered in France.
The grapes typically ripen later in the harvest season, which can be a bit of a gamble, depending on the year's climate. In temperate years, grapes mature splendidly, but in colder years, they may struggle.
Overall, the often-underestimated Counoise grape, despite being overshadowed by its more well-known counterparts, is an invaluable part of the tradition and sophistication of Rhône wine-making. Its unique characteristics and flexible traits allow it to harmonise remarkably within blends, enhancing the overall depth and complexity. It is certainly an intriguing grape variety worthy of exploration by wine aficionados.
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