Introduction
Michael David Petite Petit Lodi 2021 is a bold and captivating red blend, showcasing the intense power and unique synergy of two “petite” yet mighty grape varietals. Produced by Michael David Winery, a fifth-generation family-owned winery in Lodi renowned for their imaginative labels and commitment to sustainable practices, “Petite Petit” is a playful nod to the blend of Petite Sirah and Petit Verdot. This wine embodies the winery’s philosophy of crafting expressive, full-bodied wines from Lodi’s esteemed vineyards, where these varietals thrive in the region’s unique climate and diverse soils. The 2021 vintage in Lodi was generally considered excellent, with a long, consistent growing season that allowed grapes to develop concentrated flavors, firm structure, and balanced acidity, setting the stage for a wine of remarkable depth, robust character, and a striking presence.
Character Description
The Michael David Petite Petit Lodi 2021 enchants with an impenetrable, inky-purple hue, indicative of its profound concentration and youthful intensity. It offers an intensely aromatic and captivating bouquet of dense black plum, blueberry, and dark cherry, elegantly interwoven with intriguing notes of cracked black pepper, sweet baking spices (like vanilla and nutmeg), and a distinctive savory herbal undertone. Subtle nuances of dark chocolate, espresso, and a hint of floral violet may also emerge, adding layers of profound complexity. On the palate, it delivers a full-bodied and massively structured texture, with concentrated dark fruit and spiced flavors that mirror the nose. It’s supported by chewy, yet remarkably refined and powerful tannins that provide superb backbone and a long, expansive finish, balanced by a vibrant acidity that ensures freshness and remarkable precision for such a robust wine. The finish is exceptionally long, intensely layered, and profoundly satisfying, leaving a lingering impression of rich dark fruit intensity, complex spice notes, and the formidable, yet balanced, character that defines this unique and compelling Lodi blend.
Perfect Pairings
This robust and intensely flavorful blend is an exceptional partner for hearty and boldly flavored dishes, perfectly complementing its rich fruit, complex spice, and firm structure. It pairs beautifully with slow-smoked beef brisket, grilled lamb shanks, or rich, well-marbled steaks like ribeye or prime porterhouse. Its peppery and savory notes also make it an ideal accompaniment to barbecued pork ribs with a smoky glaze, spicy chili con carne, and robust stews featuring dark meats. Furthermore, it excels alongside aged, firm cheeses like mature cheddar, aged Gouda, or a pungent blue cheese. Its profound depth and compelling qualities make it a fantastic choice for a celebratory gathering, a hearty dinner, or for those who appreciate a powerful yet sophisticated red wine that truly expresses the distinctive character of Lodi’s unique varietals.
About the Winery
Michael David Winery is a distinctive and pioneering force in the California wine scene, rooted in over 150 years of Phillips family farming in Lodi. Established by brothers Michael and David Phillips, fifth-generation grape growers, the winery has become known for its bold, imaginative labels and a philosophy of “wine for all, all for wine.” They are deeply committed to sustainable farming practices, having been early adopters of the Lodi Rules program, a rigorous third-party certified sustainability initiative that covers environmental, social, and economic aspects. This dedication ensures that their wines are not only delicious but also produced with a deep respect for the land and community. The “Petite Petit” blend exemplifies their innovative spirit, combining the structure and color of Petite Sirah with the dark fruit and aromatic complexity of Petit Verdot to create a wine that is both powerful and approachable. Michael David Winery consistently delivers quality, character, and a sense of fun, making this blend a true representation of their commitment to crafting unique and well-made wines from California’s most cherished vineyards.