This just looks so good - it glows a bright purple in the glass and has aromas of violet, sage, tobacco and vanilla. There's plenty of bright plum and cherry fruit in there, backed up by some bay leaf and pepper. The tannins are a touch firm, so let it breathe for 20 minutes or so and enjoy in larger glasses.

Origin: Traditionally grown in Bordeaux, in south-western France, but its late ripening suggests a warmer (unknown) origin. Mainly Grown In: Bordeaux certainly has large plantings, followed by Chile, Peru, the USA, Portugal and Australia! South Australia leads the way locally. Key Facts: Petit Verdot is the 'poor cousin' in the Bordeaux variety mix - It ripens much later than the other varieties, thus leading to its name, which translates to "little green one". When it does ripen on time, it adds tannin, colour and flavour to any blend, even in small amounts. Rarely seen as a single variety, its main flavours are black cherry, plum, sage and bay leaf. Can also be floral, with aromas of violet. Fun Fact: Petit Verdot is a thick skinned grape, which translates to an intense purple colour in the glass as well as plenty of tannins!