2021 Winemaker Series Petit Verdot Lot 1

ABOUT WINEMAKERS SERIES

This Winemaker Series selection was crafted exclusively for our wine club members.

VINEYARDS & WINEMAKING

Petit Verdot is one of the five principal Bordeaux varietals, along with Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Malbec. Dark and dense with a perfumed nose, Petit Verdot is usually used in small amounts to lift the aromatics and add body and complexity to Cabernet Sauvignon. The 2021 offering is 100% Petit Verdot from Battuello Vineyard in St. Helena. The wine was aged for 19 months in 70% new French oak and 30% older French Oak.

VINTAGE

The second consecutive year of very dry conditions during winter and spring, coupled with challenging weather during bloom, resulted in a reduction in yield and more variability on the size of the clusters. A near perfect summer of classic Napa Valley weather – moderate temperatures during the day and cool sea breezes in the afternoon and evening – resulted in balanced structure. Early September saw a mini heat wave that pushed ripeness along, then a return to beautiful weather for the remainder of harvest. Overall, the 2021 vintage was fantastic for quality and will be regarded as a benchmark year for Napa Valley. 

TASTING NOTES

This Petit Verdot is a unique blend of black fruits, cassis, pleasant floral aromas, espresso, and tiramisu. The addition of a delicate rhubarb note brings a fresh, tart dimension, balancing the sweetness of the fruit and dessert aromas with a lively, almost savory edge.

The wine's mid-palate is a luxurious showcase of the depth of the dark fruit flavors, making it a rich and full-bodied experience. These flavors continue to a full-bodied finish, where the influence of elegant oak becomes prominent, contributing a touch of vanilla, spice, and a smooth texture.