Malbec vs Petit Verdot
Malbec
A deeply colored black grape with blackberry, plum and violet, native to southwest France and now strongly associated with Argentina.
- Blackberry and violet
- Deep color
- Medium to firm tannin
Recognize it
Deep purple color with medium to firm tannin. Blackberry, plum and violet are common. Argentine examples often feel riper and rounder; Cahors can be firmer and more savory.
Petit Verdot
An inky, very tannic black grape of violet and black fruit, used in small amounts to add color and structure to Bordeaux blends.
- Violet
- Very firm tannin
- Inky color
Recognize it
Extremely deep color and firm tannin, with black fruit and a strong violet note.
How they compare
- SimilarDeep color and violet notes.
- DifferencePetit Verdot usually has firmer, more drying tannin.