Fallbrook Winery, South Coast (California) Petit Verdot “33º North, Winemaker’s Vineyard Collection #17” 2021 ($75)

Wow! Winemaker Euan Parker pushes the envelope of what’s possible in a dry red wine here, but if I didn’t give you the particulars, you would just think that you have a very tasty glass of wine in your hand. A reading of the label might lead you to believe that something sweet and hot is coming your way, but the wine manages both balance and Petite Verdot character pretty seamlessly, and a little pop of heat in the finish serves to lengthen things pleasantly. Cheese plate, please.
94 Rich Cook