Petit Verdot is a variety of red
wine grape, principally used in classic
Bordeaux blends. It ripens much later than the other varieties in Bordeaux, often too late, so it fell out of favour in its home region. When it does ripen it adds tannin, colour and flavour, in small amounts, to the blend. Petit verdot has attracted attention among winemakers in the
New World, where it ripens more reliably and has been made into single
varietal wine. It is also useful in 'stiffening' the mid palate of
Cabernet Sauvignon blends.