Petit Verdot is a variety of red wine grape, principally used in classic Bordeaux blends. This small, thick-skinned grape ripens late and is often utilized to add tannin, color and fruity flavors to the blend.
Petit Verdot wines are rich in color, usually a deep, inky purple, and high in tannins. They offer strong flavors and aromas of black fruits and even violet. Also noted is an earthy tone, similar to leather or gravel. Its high level of tannin gives it good potential for aging, with the ability to develop more complex aromas and flavors over time.
The grape thrives in warmer climates as it requires a lot of heat and sunlight to fully mature, but it can struggle in cooler or more damp conditions. While planted throughout the world, the varietal has found a suitable home in parts of California and Australia.
