At Prelude, we’ve always been committed to crafting wines that reflect the distinctive character of Virginia’s terroir. After the successful launch of our two red wines, we’re excited to introduce our very first white wine: the 2023 Petit Manseng.
Why Petit Manseng?
Virginia growers have been exploring a variety of lesser-known grape varietals to discover what thrives best in our region, known for its hot, humid summers. Petit Manseng - a Vinifera varietal (not a hybrid) - is at the top of that list. This grape is traditionally grown in the Jurançon region of Southwest France, where it produces wines with vibrant acidity and complex flavors.
And since there are only approximately 1,600 acres of Petit Manseng planted worldwide, Virginia's contribution means it possesses over 10% of the world's total plantings of this variety. But what makes this varietal particularly special is how well it has adapted to Virginia’s unique climate.
Petit Manseng is naturally high in acidity and sugar, which gives it the ability to produce richly flavored wines even in challenging weather. Its small, loose grape clusters allow for essential airflow in our hot, wet-weather region, reducing the risk of rot and disease. Its late ripening period allows the grapes to hang longer on the vine, developing the intense flavors that make this varietal so special.
Virginia-grown Petit Manseng reflects the best of both worlds. The rich, loamy soils of our vineyards, combined with the region’s distinctive climate, have imparted a unique character to this wine that you won’t find anywhere else. It’s a wine that’s both a nod to tradition and a celebration of Virginia’s growing reputation as a premier wine-producing region.
What Makes Our Petit Manseng Unique?
While most Virginia winemakers naturally look to creating late harvest dessert wines from Petit Manseng because of its sugar content, landing upon a dry one in Virginia is a little more difficult. This is why we can’t wait for you to try our 2023 Petit Manseng and we’ll be launching it soon in the coming weeks! We promise this white wine is unlike anything you've tried.
Whether you’re enjoying it on its own or pairing it with a meal, we hope it brings a little bit of Virginia’s terroir to your table.
Cheers!
- Charles & the Prelude team
p.s. Stay tuned for news of the launch!