Counoise is one of the thirteen sanctioned varieties used in Châteauneuf-du-Pape and is most commonly used as a blending grape to add complexity and focus. We at Alexandria Nicole Cellars feel that this grape thrives on its own when able to reach peak ripeness. This ripeness is precisely what our Estate Destiny Ridge Vineyard provides. Darker fruit aromatics of blackberry, plum, and red licorice give way to a plethora of secondary descriptors such as toasted almonds, pine nuts, mildly roasted coffee, earth, anise, mushroom, and leather. The palate is slightly spicy with hints of black pepper and fresh herbs intermixed with cherry and plum giving way to a soft, plush finish that shows off some nice dusty tannins that the Horse Heaven Hills are known for. Pair it with a mushroom fettuccini, lentils, a lamb burger, or a cozy vegetable stew.
Download Tasting Notes
Wine Profile
Winemaker Notes
Bottle aging suggestion as of Sept. ‘22: Soft and approachable now. Would be best over the next 6-8 years.
Other Notes
85% Counoise, 15% Syrah
Wine Specs
Vintage
2020
Varietal
Counoise
Appellation
Horse Heaven Hills
Vineyard Designation
Destiny Ridge Vineyard
Acid
5.8 g/L
pH
3.68
Aging
Aged 19 months in 10% new French oak, 18% once-used French oak, and 72% neutral oak barrels
Alcohol %
14.4