Introduction:
Have you ever come across Petit Verdot while exploring different red wine varieties? Most likely, you haven’t heard much about it, because producers use it to blend other grape varietals. Petit Verdot is a red grape variety known for its deep color, which contributes to its ability to produce dark and sturdy wines with a unique flavor profile.
In this blog post, we will explore and discuss the underrated grape varietal Petit Verdot. We will elaborate on the history of the varietal, how it is used in blending, and what it has to offer when consumed alone. Lastly, we will answer some frequently asked questions about Petit Verdot.
Let’s dive into the world of Petit Verdot and explore why it may be the most underrated red wine grape variety.
Table of Contents:
1. History of Petit Verdot
2. Petit Verdot in Blending
3. Petit Verdot as a Single Variety
4. Petit Verdot Tasting Notes
5. How to Pair Petit Verdot
6. Frequently Asked Questions
7. Conclusion
History of Petit Verdot:
Petit Verdot originated from the Bordeaux region in Southwest France. It is one of the five red grape varietals that are primarily used in producing Bordeaux wines. The name “Petit Verdot” – meaning “little green one” – refers to the late ripening nature of the varietal, causing the grapes not to reach full ripeness by Bordeaux’s harvest season.
However, Petit Verdot was able to thrive in warm regions, such as Spain, where it spread across the country in the 19th century. It later made its way to North and South America, where it gained popularity in Argentina, Oregon, and California.
Petit Verdot in Blending:
Petit Verdot, despite being a minor grape variety in Bordeaux, adds depth and complexity to blends. It has a firm tannin structure and intense flavors of dark fruit, violet, and peppery spice. The addition of Petit Verdot has also helped improve the aging potential of wines.
In Bordeaux, Petit Verdot is mainly blended with Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot. However, it is also used in smaller proportions in other blends worldwide.
Petit Verdot as a Single Variety:
In recent years, winemakers around the world have recognized the unique qualities of Petit Verdot and started producing wines entirely made from the varietal. When produced alone, the wine is intense, concentrated, and full-bodied.
Unlike Cabernet Sauvignon, which has uplifting acidity, Petit Verdot has a much denser and darker flavor profile. It is often described as having flavors of blueberry, blackberry, dark chocolate, and vanilla. The wine also has high tannins, a characteristic often sought after by enthusiasts who prefer a wine that is rich and powerful.
Petit Verdot Tasting Notes:
Petit Verdot is a wine that is known for its dense color that is almost black. When poured, it often has notes of violet on the nose and aromas of dark fruits, such as blackberries and plums. On the palate, the taste is rich, intense, and full-bodied. It has a dense texture, and the tannins are firm, yet sometimes slightly grainy. The taste is often described as having a spicy mouthfeel, with notes of red and black fruit, herbs and spices, and chocolate.
How to Pair Petit Verdot:
Petit Verdot pairs well with big, bold, and flavorful dishes. Due to its full-bodied nature, it deserves bold flavors to pair alongside it, such as grilled meat. The wine pairs well with dishes such as lamb chops, prime rib, venison, and braised beef. It also pairs well with smoky or spicy dishes, such as smoked meats, spicy sausages, and barbecue. Petit Verdot is versatile and can withstand heavier, savory dishes, and stands up well to stronger cheeses like blue cheese, and also dark chocolate to finish with dessert.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Is Petit Verdot a popular wine?
Petit Verdot is not a popular wine, and is often overshadowed as a minor grape variety, though it still has an important role in blening of great wines all over the world.
2. Where is Petit Verdot grown?
Petit Verdot is primarily grown in Bordeaux, France, and other warmer regions worldwide.
3. What kind of flavors should one expect when drinking Petit Verdot?
Petit Verdot is known for flavors of dark fruits like blackberry, blueberry and plums, and spices like pepper and cloves.
4. What foods pair well with Petit Verdot?
Petit Verdot pairs well with bold, rich foods like lamb, venison, prime rib, barbecue, dark chocolate, and blue cheese.
Conclusion:
Petit Verdot may be the most underrated red wine grape variety around the world, and it deserves more attention and recognition. Petit Verdot is a unique grape varietal that is versatile in blends and full of flavor when produced individually. It is a full-bodied and powerful wine that pairs well with bold, flavorful dishes.
Try out a bottle of Petit Verdot on your next wine adventure, and you’ll be sure to discover a new appreciation for this underrated grape variety. It deserves a place in your wine collection. Be sure to add it to your future wine collection today!
FAQ:
1. Is Petit Verdot the only red grape variety used in Bordeaux blends?
No, Petit Verdot is just one of the five red grape varieties used in Bordeaux blends. The four others are Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, and Cabernet Franc.
2. Is the aging potential of wines that contain Petit Verdot superior to wines that do not?
Adding Petit Verdot to blends improves their aging potential. Petit Verdot contributes high tannin levels and acidity that can increase the wine’s ability to age.
3. What regions are known for producing the best Petit Verdot wines?
Petit Verdot is mainly grown and produced in Bordeaux, France, however regions like South Africa, Argentina, and California have produced noteworthy Petit Verdot wines.
4. How should one serve Petit Verdot?
Petit Verdot should be served at a temperature of between 16°C and 18°C. The wine benefits from decanting, which allows the wine to breathe.
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