Petit Verdot

Also: Verdot

Petit Verdot is one of the five classic red grapes of Bordeaux, where it historically played a supporting role: small proportions in blends to contribute deep color, structured tannins, and spicy, floral perfume. It ripens late and unevenly in the Atlantic Bordeaux climate, so it often failed to reach full maturity — hence its minor role. In warm, sunny climates like Mendoza, however, Petit Verdot ripens fully and begins to shine as a varietal: wines of nearly black color, full body, abundant tannins, and notes of violets, blackberry, and pepper. In Argentina it's increasingly common to see it on its own, in addition to its classic role in premium blends alongside Malbec and Cabernet.