Wines made from Counoise grapes of Arizona
Discover the best wines made with Counoise as a single variety or as a blend of Arizona.
Counoise is a black grape variety of Spanish origin. It is widely cultivated in the southern part of France. It is very similar to the aubun, with which it is often confused, and has a white cottony bud. Unlike the aubun, the leaves of this variety do not have teeth in the petiolar sinus. They are thick and large. Its bunches are medium-sized but its berries are large. It is advisable to prune it short so that it is productive. It matures in the second half of the year, but production depends on the vintage. This grape variety appreciates hillside terroirs, which are stony and warm. It fears grey rot without being sensitive to oidium and mildew. Counoise has two approved clones, 508 and 725. The wine obtained from Counoise is not very colourful. It is fine and fruity. Its aromas are diversified with notes of fruit, flowers and spices.
Arizona is located in the extreme Southwestern corner of the United States of America, bordered by Mexico to the south and southern California to the west. It covers 300,000 km² (114,000 square miles) between latitudes 31°N and 36°N. The main varieties used to make Arizona wines are Syrah, Viognier, Muscat and, of course, the ubiquitous Cabernet Sauvignon and Zinfandel. They do best in cooler regions, especially in the southwest.