First off, let’s be clear; there is nothing petit about this wine except for the price which is $9.99. This wine is a bit of an oddball in that it is from South Africa where Cabernet-Merlot blends don’t come readily to mind. What is perhaps even more puzzling is that Petit tastes more like an old world style Bordeaux than a bold, jammy fruit bomb.
The Petit Cabernet-Merlot (59% Cabernet and 41% Merlot) is medium bodied with a classic, dark ruby color that hints at the refined fruit to come. Wild strawberry and raspberry mingled with cedar greet the nose while plum and spicy notes follow on the tongue. Crisp acidity and fine tannins are complimented by a touch of cocoa. Pair this wine with food you would normally pair with a red Bordeaux. Steak with red potatoes and broccoli a gratin, or broiled Lamb Chops with garlic mashed potatoes and grilled asparagus.
The Petit Cabernet- Merlot 2011 earned a 89 point rating from Robert Parker.