Each week, I feature a wine that stands out—whether for its distinctive character, compelling story, or the sheer joy it brings to the glass. This week, I’m thrilled to feature the 2019 St. Supéry Petit Verdot Dollarhide Estate, a wine that perfectly embodies all three. In celebration of the inaugural International Petit Verdot Day on January 25, 2025, this outstanding bottle celebrates the underdog of Bordeaux varieties, proving just how extraordinary Petit Verdot can be when given the spotlight.
International Petit Verdot Day
International Petit Verdot Day was founded by Arthur Barham, a North Carolina-based sommelier, wine judge, and the host and producer of Merlot2Muscadine. This event aims to bring together wine enthusiasts, connoisseurs, and producers around the globe together to honor and explore the unique characteristics and versatility of Petit Verdot.
Petit Verdot is one of 13 permitted grape varieties in Bordeaux, traditionally used in small amounts to enhance blends dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Known for adding color, structure, floral notes and spice, it plays a supporting role in its homeland. However, in Napa Valley’s warmer Mediterranean climate, Petit Verdot takes center stage, producing supple, medium- to full-bodied wines with depth and character.
St. Supéry Estate Vineyards and Winery
St. Supéry Estate Vineyards and Winery is steeped in Napa Valley’s history, with roots dating back to the 1880s during the region’s “Golden Age of Wine.” The property was originally purchased in 1881 by the Atkinson brothers, who planted vines and built the iconic Queen Anne Victorian home that still stands today. Though the estate flourished, the devastating phylloxera epidemic of the 1890s wiped out the vineyards, forcing its sale in 1901 to Edward St. Supéry, a French winemaker. After years of changing hands, vines were finally replanted in 1957, and in 1982, the Skalli family established the modern winery, focusing on estate-grown, Bordeaux-inspired wines.
Their estate vineyards span 1,500 acres across two renowned locations: the Rutherford estate and the Dollarhide Ranch, which is located Pope Valley, on the far east side of Napa County. Known for its rich soils and diverse microclimates, Dollarhide Ranch is the birthplace of their outstanding Petit Verdot.
Owned by Chanel, Inc. since 2015, St. Supéry has fully embraced sustainability, achieving Napa Green certification as a vineyard in 2008 and as a winery in 2012. These rigorous certifications, which require ongoing recertification and measurable improvements, reflect the winery’s commitment to environmentally responsible practices. From promoting biodiversity and integrated pest management to optimizing water and energy efficiency and fostering a supportive workplace culture, St. Supéry demonstrates a holistic approach to sustainability that aligns with its dedication to quality and stewardship.
2019 St. Supéry Petit Verdot Dollarhide Estate
The Dollarhide Estate Vineyard boasts elevations ranging from 600 to 1,100 feet above sea level, with a diverse tapestry of seven soil series, 13 soil variations, and distinct microclimates. This exceptional terroir provides an ideal environment for cultivating Bordeaux grape varieties, allowing them to thrive and express their full potential.
Tasting note: Opaque garnet color with inviting blackberry, bramble, blueberry liqueur, cedar, licorice, dark roast coffee, spice and subtle sage aromas. On the palate, it’s medium bodied to full bodied, balanced by juicy acidity and velvety tannins. It shows flavors of ripe blackberry, blueberry liqueur, licorice, vanilla, warm spice and subtle notes of dark roast coffee. flavors. The finish is very satisfying!
- Aging: 19 months in French oak barrels
- Alcohol: 14.5%
- Production: 660 cases
- SRP: $70
- Score: 90 points
Ready to elevate your wine journey? Discover the bold allure of Petit Verdot by exploring bottles from renowned regions like Lodi, Livermore Valley, Napa, and Paso Robles. Taste for yourself why this distinctive varietal deserves to be celebrated.
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Petit Verdot is definitely appreciated in our house and we’re glad to see it getting its due! We are familiar with this producer but have never tried their PV. Clearly we need to change that!
Petit Verdot can be challenging to find on its own, but definitely worth the effort! Cheers!