Petit Manseng

Petit Manseng is a thick-skinned grape variety grown in France that creates a high quality white wine. This variety is known as “Small Manseng” or “Little Manseng” because of its tiny berries. Typically, the variety grows well in hot and sunny climates with cool evenings, and ripens late in the year. Petit Manseng is quite resistant to disease, and can grow very well in different regions and environments. The grape is typically harvested late in the year, which gives it a sweet flavor and can be used to great dessert wine. This variety can create natural high sugar levels, and is deliberately harvested late to ensure sweetness. Petit Manseng is usually referred to as “Manseng,” even though actual Manseng is a dark, black grape. This grape variety produces wine with high acid levels, low tannins, and creates a golden colored result. Petit Manseng grapes produce wines with nice apricot, fruit, and floral aromas and spicy notes. If the grapes are harvested later in the year, the wine will have higher alcohol content and stronger flavors. This wine pairs well with strong cheeses, foie gras, or it can be enjoyed by itself as a dessert wine. This little fruit produces powerful results.