In recent years, petillant naturel, or pet-nat, has emerged as a vibrant and exciting trend in the world of sparkling wines. This natural, minimal-intervention sparkling wine style, known for its cloudy appearance and distinctive character, is enjoying a renaissance that’s capturing the imaginations of wine enthusiasts and professionals alike. But what is pet-nat, and how did it become so trendy? Let's dive into its origins and explore the producers who are pushing its boundaries today.
What is Pet-Nat?
Pet-nat is a sparkling wine made using the méthode ancestrale, or ancestral method. This ancient technique involves bottling the wine before fermentation has completed, allowing the natural sugars in the wine to continue fermenting in the bottle. This process creates bubbles without the need for added carbon dioxide. The result is a naturally effervescent wine that can be slightly cloudy due to the yeast still in suspension. Unlike traditional sparkling wines, pet-nat is often bottled with a crown cap rather than a traditional cork and cage, and it may or may not be disgorged (a process to remove sediment).
The allure of pet-nat lies in its minimal intervention approach: it’s often made with organic or biodynamic grapes and is typically unfiltered and unsulfured, which allows the wine’s natural characteristics to shine through.
Historical Roots
The origins of pet-nat can be traced back nearly 500 years. According to legend, the méthode ancestrale was first discovered by a monk at the Benedictine abbey of Saint-Hilaire in France in the 1500s. He noticed that wine he had bottled before it had fully fermented began to form bubbles as it re-fermented in the bottle during warmer weather. This accidental discovery laid the foundation for what would eventually be known as pet-nat.
The style experienced a resurgence in the 1990s when winemaker Christian Chaussard in the Loire Valley rediscovered the méthode ancestrale and began experimenting with it. His work, and the subsequent adoption of the style by other Loire Valley winemakers, helped revive interest in this ancient method, which now enjoys a renewed popularity among contemporary wine enthusiasts.
Our Pet-Nat Selection
Vin De Soif
Alistair Blackwell and Tobias Ansted, the duo behind Vin De Soif, produce small-batch pet-nats in Heathcote, Australia. Their approach to winemaking emphasizes minimal intervention and organic farming. Vin De Soif’s pet-nats, such as their blend of Viognier, Marsanne, and Riesling, are lightly spritzy and bursting with zesty, citrusy flavors. The use of the méthode ancestrale ensures that these wines retain their fresh, vibrant character, while their low turbidity fermentation process results in a cleaner style of pet-nat. Vin De Soif’s focus on Rhône varietals and playful, approachable wines makes their pet-nats a refreshing addition to the category.
The Future of Pet-Nat
As pet-nat continues to grow in popularity, its future looks promising. The style’s appeal lies in its authenticity and connection to historical winemaking methods. With producers like Les Capriades, Christoph Hoch, and Vin De Soif leading the way, pet-nat is set to remain a beloved choice for those seeking a unique and natural sparkling wine experience. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or a curious newcomer, pet-nat offers a delightful journey into the world of naturally sparkling wines.