Pétillant Naturel, commonly known as Pét-Nat, is a unique style of sparkling wine. The term translates from French to “naturally sparkling,” and this wine is notable for its ancient method of production. The Pét-Nat method, also referred to as Méthode Ancestrale, dates back to the early 16th century in Limoux, South France, originally used by winemaking monks.
The production of Pét-Nat involves bottling wine that is only partially fermented. This allows the remaining fermentation to continue in the bottle, generating natural carbon dioxide which results in the wine’s effervescence. Unlike the traditional-method sparkling wines like Champagne, which undergo a second fermentation in the bottle with added sugar and yeast, Pét-Nat’s fermentation is completed in the bottle without these additions. This method gives Pét-Nat its distinctive light, fizzy mouthfeel and generally lower alcohol content. These wines can be slightly sweet, although dry versions are also available.
Pét-Nat wines are often less controlled in their fermentation process, leading to variability and a certain level of unpredictability. This can make their production challenging and requires a skilled winemaker to achieve a balanced and stable result. The wine is typically rustic and raw, reflecting the terroir from which it originates. It’s common for Pét-Nat bottles to be cloudy due to the presence of lees and lack of filtration.
