The Counoise Grape

Counoise is a dark-skinned grape variety used primarily in red Chateauneuf du Pape, from Rhone. In the past the grape was known as Moutardier when grown for Gigondas wines. This grape is often described as having fruity tones, such as from wild berries, plumbs or strawberries. Counoise is often used as a blending grape with other grapes to form the wine, because of its good acidity and flavours. The Counoise wines are best served with lamb, pork or tuna.