2019 Old School Lane Cellars Dunnigan Hills, California Petit Verdot

Even in relatively small quantities, the variety can make a big difference in the finished wine. Petit Verdot is one of the classic red varieties allowed in a “Bordeaux blend,” along with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Carmenere. In fact, rare is the Bordeaux red that doesn’t include at least a small amount of Petit Verdot.

The variety offers something that’s important to vintners: additional spiciness. Some have described it as the pepper on the steak.

So it comes as no surprise that when Petit Verdot takes the lead in a Bordeaux-style blend, as it does in the 2019 vintage from Old School Lane Cellars, there’s a noticeable spiciness on the palate. A small amount of Cabernet Sauvignon contributes body, while a splash of Malbec intensifies the color. All in all, it’s a delightful rendition of Petit Verdot.