More and more varietally labeled Petit Verdot is showing up in California, and this wine explains the trend. There’s real depth here, with primary blackberry fruit joined by notes of damp earth and leaf, delivered on a plush texture that isn’t lacking for structure. Decant now, or age five years or so. I’d go with lamb or other rich dishes as a pairing. A Platinum Award-winner at the 2016 Sommelier Challenge International Wine Competition.
McKenzie-Mueller, Napa Valley (California) Petit Verdot 2012
By Rich Cook