Counoise shows fruit, finesse and complexity when properly cultivated, but can be light and bitter when overcropped. It does not have much color or tannin, but brings good acidity to Châteauneuf-du-Pape blends.

A late budding vine with dark skins, Counoise is more difficult to cultivate than other Rhône varieties and is more susceptible to heat stress and mildew.

Often confused with Aubun, as these two grapes were frequently grown in the same vineyards in the past. Counoise is considered the higher quality of the two.