The Magic of Pét-Nat and Hops
For those who have been exploring the world of unfiltered, natural wines, you may have come across the term “natty white”. It’s a term that refers to a type of white wine that has undergone minimal intervention during the winemaking process – no filtering, no added sulfites, and no industrial yeasts.
While some people swear by natty white wines, others find them too funky or even downright undrinkable. But there’s a new trend in the world of natural wines that might just change your mind – pét-nat + hops.
What is Pét-Nat?
Pét-nat stands for pétillant naturel, which is French for “naturally sparkling”. It’s a method of making sparkling wine that is much less involved than the traditional méthode champenoise. Instead of adding sugar and yeast to a finished wine and allowing it to ferment in the bottle, pét-nat is bottled before fermentation is complete. This allows the remaining sugars to ferment naturally, resulting in a wine that is fizzy, slightly sweet, and low in alcohol.
What are Hops?
Hops are a type of flower that is used primarily in the production of beer. They add bitterness and aroma to beer, and they also have antibacterial properties that help to preserve the beer. While hops are not typically used in winemaking, some winemakers are experimenting with adding them to pét-nat wines.
Why Add Hops to Pét-Nat?
There are a few reasons why a winemaker might choose to add hops to a pét-nat wine. First and foremost, hops add an interesting flavor profile to the wine. Depending on the type of hops used, the wine can have notes of citrus, pine, or even tropical fruit. Second, hops can help to stabilize the wine and prevent refermentation in the bottle. Finally, hops can add a natural preservative to the wine, allowing it to age gracefully without the need for added sulfites.
What Do Pét-Nat + Hops Wines Taste Like?
If you’re used to drinking traditional sparkling wines, pét-nat + hops wines might take some getting used to. They are typically much less fizzy than traditional sparkling wines, and they can have a slightly yeasty, beer-like flavor. However, the addition of hops can also give the wine a refreshing bitterness and a unique aroma that sets it apart from other sparkling wines.
Where Can You Find Pét-Nat + Hops Wines?
Because pét-nat + hops is a relatively new trend in the wine world, these wines can be a bit difficult to find. However, if you have a local wine shop that specializes in natural wines, they may be able to point you in the right direction. Alternatively, you can always try making your own pét-nat + hops wine at home if you’re feeling adventurous!
In Conclusion
If you’re looking for a new and exciting way to explore the world of natural wines, pét-nat + hops might be just what you need. These wines are refreshing, unique, and perfect for those who are looking for something a little bit different. Give them a try and see what all the fuss is about!
