Petit Courbu: Origins and Unique Characteristics of This Grape Variety

Petit Courbu is an ancient and rare white grape variety native to southwestern France. Renowned for its elegance and ability to produce balanced and complex white wines, it plays a key role in the blends of the region’s prestigious appellations. With its aromatic richness and delightful freshness, Petit Courbu captivates lovers of fruity and refined wines. Discover the origins, emblematic terroirs, and aromatic characteristics of this unique grape variety, and follow our guide to create the perfect food and wine pairings with dry or sweet white wines made from Petit Courbu.

Description and Origins of Petit Courbu

Petit Courbu is an indigenous grape variety of southwestern France, cultivated for centuries in the Pyrenean vineyards. First mentioned in viticultural records in the 17th century, it is particularly valued for adding complexity and finesse to the blends of wines from appellations such as AOC Jurançon and AOC Pacherenc du Vic-Bilh. With low yields and susceptibility to diseases, Petit Courbu was on the brink of extinction before being rediscovered and revived by passionate winemakers. Thanks to its late ripening and high aromatic concentration, it is now used to craft high-quality dry and sweet white wines.

Key Terroirs Where Petit Courbu is Cultivated

Petit Courbu is primarily grown in southwestern France, where it features prominently in blends from prestigious appellations such as AOC Pacherenc du Vic-Bilh, AOC Jurançon, and AOC Béarn. It thrives on the clay-limestone and gravelly soils of the Pyrenean foothills, benefiting from the influence of the oceanic climate and warm winds. Often paired with other varieties such as Gros Manseng and Petit Manseng, Petit Courbu contributes to the distinctive character and balance of the region's great white wines.

Aromatic Characteristics of Petit Courbu

Characteristics of Petit Courbu in Dry White Wine:

Appearance: Pale yellow with green highlights.

Nose: Elegant aromas of white fruits (pear, apple), citrus (lemon, grapefruit), and white flowers (acacia, honeysuckle).

Palate: Produces dry white wines with a notable minerality and a crisp, citrusy finish.

Characteristics of Petit Courbu in Sweet White Wine:

Appearance: Bright golden hue.

Nose: Rich notes of honey, exotic fruits (mango, pineapple), and candied fruits (apricot, quince).

Palate: Creamy texture balanced by subtle acidity, offering harmonious flavors and an elegant finish.

Best Food Pairings with Petit Courbu

Here are some dish suggestions to perfectly pair with a bottle of dry or sweet white wine made from Petit Courbu:

• Grilled trout with almonds (AOC Béarn Blanc Sec)
• Tagliatelle with langoustines (AOC Jurançon Sec)
• Duck foie gras from the Southwest (AOC Pacherenc du Vic-Bilh Moelleux)
• Tarte Tatin (AOC Jurançon Moelleux)
• Aged Ossau-Iraty sheep cheese (AOC Pacherenc du Vic-Bilh Sec)

Petit Courbu, a discreet white grape variety from southwestern France, is a true gem for fans of elegant and complex white wines. Whether vinified dry or sweet, it delivers remarkable aromatic richness and freshness. Explore our selection of Petit Courbu wines on Avenue des Vins and be charmed by bottles sourced directly from the winery or château of your choice.