2008 Petit Verdot, Lamorinda

(Contra Costa County)

Petit Verdot is rarely bottled as a varietally-labeled wine, most often used as a blending component, adding color, structure, and complexity to complement the other four Bordeaux varieties (Cab Sauv, Merlot, Cab Franc, and Malbec) that most frequently comprise the famed wines from this French region. On its own, the varietal produces some surprisingly unique characteristics that we think will appeal to both the adventurous wine enthusiast as well as those who just enjoy good red wine.

In the glass, as one would expect, the appearance is nearly opaque with a dark crimson color. The nose displays deep, brooding aromas of violets, tobacco, and blackberries with a slight hint of menthol. The palate features a big, robust mouthful of dark fruits, tanned leather and spice, framing a core of black currants and highlighted by intense, but well-balanced tannins, leading a to lingering finish that leaves a suggestion of caramel and smoke. This wine, while complex and bold, is focused on the fruit rather than leading with some of the herbaceous and vegetal qualities sometimes associated with the varietal, allowing it to be enjoyed with or without food. However, it's clearly a serious wine calling out for the accompaniment of bolder red meats, aged cheeses, and bitter dark chocolate. This wine can be enjoyed now with sufficient aeration, though it also has the structure to soften and evolve for another decade or more in the cellar.