🍇Grape Variety

Petit-Verdot

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"puh-TEE ver-DOH"

Wine Styles

Sparkling WineSparkling
Light White WineLight White
Full White WineFull White
Aromatic WineAromatic
Rosé WineRosé
Light Red WineLight Red
Medium Red WineMedium Red
Full Red WineFull Red
Dessert WineDessert
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About Petit-Verdot

Origin
South West France
History
Petit Verdot is a red wine grape variety that originated in South West France, notably in the Bordeaux region. Its name translates to 'little green one,' likely due to its tendency to ripen later than other Bordeaux varieties, often resulting in under-ripe berries in cooler climates. This late ripening made it less favorable in Bordeaux, leading to a decline in plantings. However, Petit Verdot has found success in warmer wine regions, such as Australia, California, and South America, where the climate allows for full ripening, producing wines with deep color, robust tannins, and rich flavors.
Appearance
Small, thick-skinned berries with a deep blue-black hue.
Growing Traits
Petit Verdot is a late-ripening variety that thrives in warm climates. Its small, thick-skinned berries contribute to wines with deep color and high tannin content. The grape's late ripening can be a challenge in cooler regions, often leading to under-ripe fruit if the growing season is not long enough.
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Wine Characteristics

Body
4/5
Sweetness
1/5
Tannin
5/5
Acidity
4/5
Alcohol
3/5
Full-bodied with a robust and structured profile, offering depth and intensity. Typically vinified dry, though it can exhibit ripe fruit characteristics. High tannin levels, contributing to a firm and age-worthy structure. Medium to high acidity, providing freshness and balance to its bold character. Moderate to high alcohol content, generally around 13-14%, contributing to its robust nature.
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Taste Profile

Blackberry
Blackberry
Plum
Plum
Violet
Violet
Sage
Sage
Vanilla
Vanilla
Petit Verdot wines are characterized by intense aromas of blackberry and plum, complemented by floral notes of violet and herbal hints of sage. On the palate, they are full-bodied with firm tannins, offering flavors of dark fruits, spice, and often a touch of vanilla from oak aging. The finish is typically long and structured, indicating good aging potential.
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Food Pairing

Petit Verdot's full body, high tannins, and rich flavor profile make it an excellent match for hearty dishes. It pairs well with grilled or roasted meats, such as lamb, beef, and game. Its bold character complements rich stews, barbecued ribs, and aged cheeses. Herb-infused dishes, especially those with rosemary or sage, also harmonize with its complex flavors.
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Growing Regions

France
France
Bordeaux
Australia
Australia
McLaren Vale
United States
United States
CaliforniaVirginia
Argentina
Argentina
Mendoza
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Notable Wines & Producers

Château Palmer
Château Palmer
Pirramimma Petit Verdot
Pirramimma
Domaine Valensac Petit Verdot
Domaine Valensac

Petit-Verdot FAQ

Common questions about this grape variety
What is the origin of Petit-Verdot?
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South West France
Is Petit-Verdot wine full bodied?
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Petit-Verdot has a body level of 4 out of 5. Which means that Petit-Verdot is Moderate to Full bodied.
Is Petit-Verdot wine dry or sweet?
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Petit-Verdot has a dryness level of 1 out of 5. Which means that Petit-Verdot is Dry.
Where is Petit-Verdot wine from?
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South West France
Where is Petit-Verdot grown?
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Petit-Verdot is grown in France (Bordeaux)Australia (McLaren Vale)United States (California, Virginia)Argentina (Mendoza).
What is Petit-Verdot like?
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Petit Verdot wines are characterized by intense aromas of blackberry and plum, complemented by floral notes of violet and herbal hints of sage. On the palate, they are full-bodied with firm tannins, offering flavors of dark fruits, spice, and often a touch of vanilla from oak aging. The finish is typically long and structured, indicating good aging potential.
What does Petit-Verdot pair with?
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Petit Verdot's full body, high tannins, and rich flavor profile make it an excellent match for hearty dishes. It pairs well with grilled or roasted meats, such as lamb, beef, and game. Its bold character complements rich stews, barbecued ribs, and aged cheeses. Herb-infused dishes, especially those with rosemary or sage, also harmonize with its complex flavors.
What does Petit-Verdot taste like?
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Petit Verdot wines are characterized by intense aromas of blackberry and plum, complemented by floral notes of violet and herbal hints of sage. On the palate, they are full-bodied with firm tannins, offering flavors of dark fruits, spice, and often a touch of vanilla from oak aging. The finish is typically long and structured, indicating good aging potential.
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