Vitis vinifera Petit Verdot - Grape vine

The Petit Verdot grape is a very ancient variety of wine grape, originating from the southwest. It is vigorous and quite difficult to manage, as it grows in all directions. If left unpruned, it can reach a height of 4m (13ft), but it is better to prune it regularly. It requires hot summers and needs moisture at the root level to fruit well, which is why it has fallen out of fashion. Nevertheless, it is still found in small proportions in renowned appellations such as Margaux, Pauillac, Médoc, Saint-Estèphe... It has the advantage of being fairly resistant to diseases, but it is sensitive to mites and the European grapevine moth.

The wine grape (Vitis vinifera) grew wild over 5000 years ago in North and Central America, Europe, and Central and Eastern Asia. The subspecies sylvestris still exists, and it is a climbing vine that grows on the edge of forests and can reach great heights in trees. The current varieties belong to the subspecies vinifera (although there are other cultivated species, but they are very minor). 

Petit Verdot is one of the historical vines that dates back to at least the 18th century. This variety is believed to originate from the southwest, although it seems to be directly descended from Tressot Noir, a grape variety from Yonne. It is also planted in Bulgarian, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, and Maltese vineyards, which shows its preference for hot climates. It is named after its ability to stay green longer than other grape varieties, as it needs warmth to fully ripen...
Petit Verdot is quite recognizable during bud break due to its cottony appearance, and also by its young yellowish leaves and tendrils. When mature, the leaves take on a heart-shaped form with 3 lobes and are a dark matte green. It is vigorous and trailing, with branches that tend to grow horizontally and in all directions. They are quite weak at their base and tend to break easily in the wind, so they need to be carefully trained. The early summer flowering produces small to medium-sized, cylindrical clusters made up of small bluish-black, round berries. This grape is used in small proportions in many appellations, giving them a tannic and structured character, making them suitable for ageing. It ripens late, almost 4 weeks after Chasselas, a benchmark grape, even though it only buds 4 days after it, which speaks volumes about its heat requirements. That is why the harvest can be compromised in mediocre summers, while it thrives in hot countries like Spain, as long as there is enough moisture available, as it is sensitive to drought. 

Petit Verdot grapes are not the easiest to cultivate, due to their unruly growth and their high heat requirements. However, they are less susceptible to various vine diseases such as downy mildew, powdery mildew, and botrytis. Because of their heat requirements, it is advisable to train them against a well-exposed stone wall to maximize sun exposure. In general, grapes are rich in vitamin B, a source of fibre and manganese, and they are also rich in antioxidants. They are believed to play a role in preventing cardiovascular diseases, and above all, they are a healthy, natural, and delicious dessert. To enjoy different flavours, plant a white grape variety like Fragola Bianca alongside it, with its exceptional aroma. Or try the Navaho Thornless Blackberry, which can be enjoyed fresh or cooked in desserts or jellies.