Petit Verdot (peh-tee vur-doe) is a full-bodied red wine that originates in Southern France, specially in Bordeaux. This thick-skinned grape is commonly used in Bordeaux for blending because of its tannins, color and floral aromas. Single varietals of Petit Verdot wine in Bordeaux (and Europe) are rare since the varietal is typically still a little green when it’s harvested.
However, there are several producers making outstanding Petit Verdot wines in the New World regions given warmer temperatures and longer ripening times.
Dominant flavors and aromas can include intense Black Cherry, Blueberry, Black Plum, Violet, Thyme, Lilac, Sage, Smoked Meats, Clove and Mocha
Fun Fact
Petit Verdot translates to “little green one”. This “term” is due to the late-ripening aspect of this grape.
On the palate, the wine is dry with high tannins (texture), bold fruit and medium-plus acidity. Over time the wine can show flavors of leather, smoke, and smoked meat. In warmer climates where it can fully ripen, Petit Verdot expresses itself with floral, black fruit, herbal notes, and gravelly minerality.
WHERE TO FIND THE PETIT VERDOT GRAPE
Some well-known regions include La Mancha, Jumilla, Bordeaux, Tuscany, Mendoza Valley and Colchagua in Chile. Top producing countries include Spain, France, Australia, United States, South Africa, Chile and Argentina.
WHEN IS THE RIGHT MOOD FOR PETIT VERDOT WINE?
HOW TO ENJOY PETITE VERDOT WINE
PETITE VERDOT FOOD PAIRING
The powerful texture and tannins in Petite Verdot wine makes food pairings a natural fit for rich, meat dishes, and grilled meats. The wine also pairs well with Mexican food like mole or adobo, lamb, barbecue beef short ribs, smoked gouda, aged cheddar, black pepper, smoked paprika, Portobello mushroom.
PRACTICAL TIPS FOR PETITE VERDOT WINE
Glassware: Oversized red wine glass with a large bowl.
Bottle Prices: The average cost of this bottle is $15 to $25.
Serving Tip: This wine benefits from lengthy decanting -at least one hour – and is best enjoyed at room temperature.
PETITE VERDOT WINE RECOMMENDATIONS
Looking for Petite Verdot recommendations? Here are a few suggested sips.
Maia Parish
Carpe Travel collaborated with Maia Parish to compile the grape varietal overviews. Maia Parish is an award-winning events producer, sommelier, wine judge, and media consultant. She lives in Denver, Colorado and likes to eat copious amounts of food. You can find her here www.linktr.ee/thewinemistress.