Battuello Vineyards, Saint Helena, Napa Valley (California) Petit Verdot 2018

 I’m seeing more and more of this variety getting top billing on labels these days.  Petit Verdot usually plays a bit part in blends, serving to deepen color and fill what winemakers call “hole in the middle” issues thanks to its round personality. This bottling lets other facets come to the fore, with chocolate and layered fall spice and soft pepper joining rich black fruit.  There’s a little saline note that adds a savory character to the bold fruit, and it makes for an elevated dialogue of flavor.  It’s a fine partner for beef dishes, and it’s got the structure to age a good while.  Great stuff.