Pétillant naturel, or pét-nat, is a sparkling wine made using the méthode ancestrale, which means "ancestral method" in French. This method of sparkling wine production predates the more common méthode champenoise, which is used to make Champagne and other traditional sparkling wines.

What Is a Pet Nat?

The Méthode Ancestrale

The méthode ancestrale is a simpler and more natural method of sparkling wine production. It involves bottling the wine before it has finished fermenting, allowing the natural carbon dioxide produced by the fermentation process to carbonate the wine.

This results in a sparkling wine that is naturally effervescent, with a lower alcohol content and a slightly cloudy appearance. Pét-nats are often made from white grapes, but they can also be made from red grapes or rosé.

Characteristics of Pét-Nats

Pét-nats are typically light-bodied and refreshing, with a slightly sweet or off-dry taste. They have a lower alcohol content than traditional sparkling wines, typically around 8 to 12 percent ABV. Pét-nats also have a slightly cloudy appearance, due to the presence of yeast and sediment in the wine.

Serving Pét-Nats

Pét-nats are best served chilled, at a temperature of around 45 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit. They can be enjoyed as an aperitif, with light meals, or as a dessert wine.

Popular Pét-Nat Regions

Pét-nats are produced in many regions around the world, but some of the most popular regions include:

  • Loire Valley, France
  • Jura, France
  • Beaujolais, France
  • California, USA
  • Oregon, USA
  • New York, USA
  • Australia

Conclusion

Pét-nats are a delicious and refreshing type of sparkling wine that is made using the méthode ancestrale. They are typically light-bodied and refreshing, with a slightly sweet or off-dry taste. Pét-nats are best served chilled, at a temperature of around 45 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit.