Petit Verdot
⏳ Drinking Window
2019 - 2026
🍽️ Food & Wine Pairings
Roasted leg of lamb, grilled ribeye steak, aged Gouda or Manchego cheese
✨ Technical Specifications
JM Cellars' Petit Verdot is a compelling demonstration of Washington State's ability to master a notoriously difficult, late-ripening Bordeaux variety. Historically relegated to a minor blending role in southwestern France to contribute color and structure, Petit Verdot finds a welcoming home in the arid, sun-drenched vineyards of Eastern Washington, such as Stillwater Creek and the estate Margaret's Vineyard. The dramatic diurnal temperature shifts of the region preserve natural acidity while allowing the grape to achieve full phenolic ripeness. Winemaker John Bigelow coaxes out the variety's signature intense violet aromas, dark stone fruits, and muscular, structured tannins through thoughtful French oak aging, creating a bold, deeply colored wine that balances power with refined elegance.
🍾 About the Producer
Established in 1998 by John and Peggy Bigelow, JM Cellars is a benchmark family-owned artisanal winery centered at Bramble Bump, a wooded sanctuary in Woodinville, Washington. Initially mentored by prominent Washington vintners Mike Januik and Charlie Hoppes, the Bigelows evolved from basement garagistes into leading producers of small-lot, site-expressive Pacific Northwest wines. While production operations are based in Woodinville and Maltby, estate fruit originates from Margaret's Vineyard—a certified sustainable and Salmon-Safe site perched within Walla Walla's acclaimed SeVein development. Complementing their estate plantings, JM Cellars selectively sources from venerated Columbia Valley, Yakima Valley, and Red Mountain vineyards, including Boushey, Stillwater Creek, and Quintessence. Winemaking under John and his son Tommy emphasizes precision and texture, utilizing small-batch fermentations in stainless steel, concrete eggs, and French oak barrels. Benchmark cuvées include their signature Tre Fanciulli red blend, Margaret's Vineyard Bordeaux varietals, and vineyard-designated Viognier, Sauvignon Blanc, and Chardonnay, consistently distinguished by vibrant fruit purity and structured finesse.
🍇 Grapes
Petit Verdot