Petit Verdot is a grape that is often overlooked. Many do know that it is one of the minor grapes in many of the famous Bordeaux reds. By itself it is not as big and bold, but it can make a very interesting and highly fragrant wine. Various winemakers, primarily in North America and Australia, have recognized the potential and started to provide Petit Verdot as a single varietal wine.
Sandhill Vineyards are one of the Okanagan wineries to offer Petit Verdot by itself as part of their “Small Lots” program. Sandhill is a larger B.C. winery, with four separate vineyards thoughout the valley. They produce large amounts of basic wine, with the Small Lots wines being similar to other wineries “reserve” offerings.
The Sandhill 2004 Petit Verdot was re-released last year by the winery along with several other vintages and varieties of their limited release wines.
The first impression of this wine is a little unusual, as it has taken on a slightly orange tinge from aging. This colour change has not affected its scent, which is warm and full of cocoa, cherries and a hint of vanilla. Chocolate covered cherries immediately spring to mind after a deep inhale.
The body is light and silky, with a faint medley of red fruits. The depth that you can so readily smell is unfortunately not there. The wine finishes dry and short.
All in all, I cannot say that it is a bad wine, just a little disappointing. The nose promises what the body cannot deliver. I have found that the Australian Petit Verdots (the Piramimma in particular) seem to have more body and depth; perhaps they need the heat and sun of that part of the world to truly stand on their own.
Synopsis:
Availability: Limited
Price: Average (for an older wine)~$35
D’s Rating: 3/5
Notes: A average wine with a lovely smell. There are better examples out there, but ultimately I wouldn’t turn down a glass if offered.
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