Counoise
Grape variety for rosé and red wine
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.
- black fruits
- elder
- floral notes
- plum
- spices
Characteristics
- Acidity: good
- Rather fine tannic structure
- Wines from the Counoise region, used in blends, brings complexity and a particular fruitiness.
Soil type
This grape variety appreciates warm, stony hillside terroirs. It fears grey rot without being sensitive to oidium and mildew.