2023 Counoise

The Joy of the Unexpected

Counoise is almost always relegated to a supporting role in Rhône blends. Not here. This delicate yet flavor-packed varietal deserves the spotlight, revealing that broadening your palate isn't always about boldness—sometimes it's about noticing the quiet details that make the most impact.

Tasting Notes: Medium-light in body with a lighter color than its Bordeaux cousins, this Counoise surprises with wild berry aromatics and a distinctive peppery spark. Despite lacking heavy tannins, it holds up remarkably well to diverse food pairings. Intense with flavor and not lacking in aromatics, it's a wine that rewards curiosity over hesitation.

Pour Now, Pair Freely: Here's the problem we've all faced—that bold, young red demanding years in the cellar while dinner is ready now. Counoise is the solution. This is a wine of the moment, offering nuance and complexity without the wait. No decanting required, no patience needed.

Expanding Horizons: In the right hands, this delicate and unexpected grape varietal can shock even the most experienced wine enthusiast. It shows the remarkable diversity of Washington's grape-growing regions and our commitment to producing atypical varietals mostly unknown in the state.

From Pronunciation to Pleasure: Everything about Counoise reveals itself as rewarding. From learning how to say it (koo-NWAHZ) to discovering its unique flavors, this wine embodies our philosophy that the less familiar can sometimes be more rewarding.

The Lesson: You never know what you're going to get until you pop the cork. Invite a few friends over and let it start the conversation that hopefully continues for the rest of the evening.