What Is a Pet-Nat? Your Pétillant Naturel Questions Answered

Quick Answer

Pet-nat, short for pétillant naturel, is a naturally sparkling wine made by bottling wine before it finishes fermenting, so the bubbles come from native yeast. It's typically unfiltered, low in alcohol, and can be cloudy, with a range of flavors from funky to fruity. If you enjoy natural wines, pet-nat is a playful and affordable choice.

Pet-nat is having a moment, but many people still ask: what is it exactly? Short for pétillant naturel, this style of sparkling wine has been around for centuries but only recently gained popularity in the natural wine world. Unlike Champagne or Prosecco, pet-nat is made using an ancient method that captures the wine's natural fermentation in the bottle.

In this FAQ, we answer common questions about pet-nat, from how it's made to how to serve it. Whether you're a natural wine newbie or a seasoned enthusiast, you'll find practical tips to help you pick a bottle that suits your taste.

What Does 'Pet-Nat' Mean?

Pet-nat is a nickname for pétillant naturel, a French term meaning 'naturally sparkling.' It refers to a method of making sparkling wine where the wine is bottled while it is still fermenting. The fermentation continues in the bottle, trapping carbon dioxide and creating bubbles. This technique is also known as 'méthode ancestrale' and predates the more complex Champagne method.

Because the process is simple and hands-off, pet-nats often have a slightly cloudy appearance and a rustic character. They are typically lower in alcohol than other sparkling wines and can range from bone dry to slightly sweet. The flavor profile varies widely, from bright and fruity to funky and earthy, depending on the grapes and winemaking choices.

How Is Pet-Nat Different from Champagne?

Champagne is made using the 'méthode traditionnelle,' which involves a secondary fermentation in the bottle after the wine is blended. This process requires precise dosages, aging on lees, and riddling to remove sediment. Pet-nat, on the other hand, undergoes a single fermentation that starts in the tank and finishes in the bottle. It's a more natural and less manipulated approach.

Because pet-nat is often made with minimal intervention, it can be unpredictable. You might find a pet-nat that's slightly fizzy or one that's fully sparkling. The flavor is often more expressive of the grape and terroir, and it's usually bottled without added sulfites or fining agents. This makes it a favorite among natural wine drinkers who appreciate authenticity over uniformity.

What Does Pet-Nat Taste Like?

Pet-nat can taste like a lot of things. Since it's made from various grapes and regions, the flavor can range from zesty and citrusy to funky and yeasty. Some pet-nats have a touch of sweetness because the fermentation stops naturally before all the sugar is converted. Others are bone dry with a tart, refreshing finish.

If you're new to pet-nat, start with a style you already like in still wines. For example, if you enjoy crisp whites, look for a pet-nat made from Chenin Blanc or Sauvignon Blanc. If you prefer reds, try a pet-nat made from Pinot Noir or Gamay. The key is to be open to the unexpected—pet-nat is all about celebrating the wine's natural character.

How Should I Serve Pet-Nat?

Pet-nat is best served chilled, between 45-50°F (7-10°C). It's a versatile wine that pairs well with a variety of foods, from appetizers and salads to fried dishes and spicy cuisine. Because it's often cloudy, don't be alarmed if you see sediment in the bottle—that's a sign of a natural wine. You can pour it carefully to avoid disturbing the sediment, or embrace it for a fuller flavor.

When opening a pet-nat, be prepared for a potential gush of bubbles. Since the fermentation continues in the bottle, there can be more pressure than expected. Chill it well and open it slowly, tilting the glass at an angle to control the flow. Once opened, pet-nat is best consumed within a day or two, as it tends to lose its fizz quickly.

Is Pet-Nat the Same as Natural Wine?

Pet-nat is often categorized as a natural wine because it's made with minimal intervention, using native yeasts and no added sulfites. However, not all natural wines are sparkling, and not all pet-nats are certified organic or biodynamic. The term 'natural wine' refers to a broader philosophy, while pet-nat is a specific production method.

If you're looking for a pet-nat that aligns with natural wine principles, look for bottles that mention organic farming or minimal intervention. For example, Jumbo Time Wines, a Los Angeles-based natural winery, focuses on farming practices and minimal cellar intervention, making their wines a good choice for those who value the natural approach.

Pet-Nat Quick Reference

What does pet-nat stand for?

Pétillant naturel, meaning 'naturally sparkling' in French. It's a wine that gets its bubbles from a single fermentation that finishes in the bottle.

How is pet-nat made?

The wine is bottled before fermentation is complete, trapping carbon dioxide. This ancient method results in a naturally sparkling wine with a rustic character.

How is pet-nat different from Champagne?

Champagne uses a secondary fermentation and more manipulation; pet-nat uses a simple one-time fermentation. Pet-nat is typically more natural, less predictable, and often more affordable.

What does pet-nat taste like?

Flavors range from fruity and fresh to funky and yeasty, depending on the grapes and winemaking. Start with a style you like in still wines to find a pet-nat you'll enjoy.

How should I serve pet-nat?

Serve chilled at 45-50°F, open slowly, and drink within a day or two. Embrace the cloudiness and sediment as signs of its natural production.

Pet-Nat Picks to Try

• Jumbo Time Wines Deep Sea Love Paradise Natural Wine - 750ml: Jumbo Time Wines is a Los Angeles + Sonoma based natural winery, started in 2020, working with organically farmed (dry farmed & biodynamic when possible) fruit, and practicing minimal intervention in the cellar. This wine comes from a producer that embodies the natural wine ethos, making it a great choice if you want a pet-nat that reflects the farming-first approach.
• Onward Nouveau Style Zinfandel - 750ml: Onward Nouveau Style Zinfandel is a bright and playful red from Mendocino, California, bottled soon after harvest to preserve freshness and exuberance, with vibrant aromas of red cherry and cranberry. While not a pet-nat, this wine shares the youthful, vibrant spirit of pet-nat and offers a similar low-intervention style if you're exploring natural wines.

Pet-nat is a fun, approachable sparkling wine that celebrates the natural winemaking process. Whether you're a seasoned natural wine fan or just starting to explore, trying a pet-nat is a great way to experience something unique and expressive. Look for bottles from producers who prioritize organic farming and minimal intervention, and don't be afraid to experiment with different grapes and regions. Cheers to discovering your new favorite fizzy wine!