Counoise, also known as “Moustardier” is a black grape variety of Spanish origin, widely grown in the south of France. Its bunches are of medium size, but its grapes are large. It’s best to prune it short to keep its production balanced. Its ripening period is the second stage but production depends on the vintage. The Counoise gives a fine, fruity, supple wine with good acidity, with notes of fruit, flowers and spices. Its colour is more or less dark and brilliant and it’s an accessory grape variety which shouldn’t exceed 10% of the grape variety.
Syrah
The origin of this grape variety is no longer disputed. Recent analyses have shown that Syrah is a natural cross between Mondeuse Blanche (a grape variety from Savoy) and Dureza, an old variety native to the Ardèche. It is an expressive grape variety with a beautiful aromatic richness and a strong colour intensity. Syrah expresses fruity, floral and spicy scents. It is one of the so-called “complementary” grape varieties of the appellation along with Mourvèdre. Together they should represent at least 20% of the grape variety.