About Petit Verdot

About Petit Verdot
Petit Verdot is a red Bordeaux variety, one of six permitted in a Bordeaux classified wine. It is almost never seen as a stand-alone variety in this region, instead it is a blending component, used primarily to add color to the wine.

The grape's deep, inky purple hue is quite remarkable and perhaps for that reason, it has attracted a handful of producers in California as a stand-alone wine. It is also used in small amounts as a blending grape in certain powerful California reds. The grape is also grown in Chile and Spain.

The flavors are of blackberry, black cherry and plum along with light black spice. Tannins are moderate as is acidity. Pair a Petit Verdot with robust dishes, be it game birds or venison.

Top Picks for Petit Verdot

Jarvis 2018 Estate Petit Verdot
96 points
$230
A black fruit backbone with dashes of green herbs and a whole field of purple flowers; this is exactly what Petit Verdot is supposed to be.
Spangler 2020  Petit Verdot
94 points
$39
Rarely seen as a single varietal, this expression shows the rich floral, savory, and purple fruit tones that are great in a blend and more than good enough to be enjoyed independently.
Jarvis 2014 Estate Petit Verdot
93 points
$205
An incredible example of Petit Verdot that is a bit barrel forward now but will unfurl and improve for decades.
Clovis Point 2019  Petit Verdot
93 points
$75
A wonderful and rich table wine to impress your dinner guests.
Cerro Block 2018 Single Vineyard Petit Verdot
92 points
$85
Fruity and floral with an underlying earthy bass tone, this will pair with steaks while bringing an ethereal top note to the combination.
Spangler 2021  Petit Verdot
91 points
$39
Vibrant and beautifully aromatic, this is a delicious example of Petit Verdot shining in the spotlight.
Mira Winery 2021 Estate Petit Verdot
90 points
$95
Mouth coating and lush, densely fruited, smooth and savory; a well executed single varietal Petit Verdot.
North Cliff Vineyards 2019  Petit Verdot
86 points
$50
A red wine that will appeal to drinkers of Bourbon barrel cherry-infused Stouts; think rich chocolate tones and some malty sweetness with light floral and cherry essence.
Clovis Point 2020  Petit Verdot
86 points
$75
Elevated tannic structure and black fruit make this a red wine that would appreciate food.
DH Lescombes 2017 Limited Release Petit Verdot
85 points
$48
Interesting and food friendly, particularly with a mole or savory chocolate dessert.