The Rise of Pét Nat
For those who love natural wine, pétillant-naturel or Pét Nat is a buzzword right now. Pét Nat is a French term that means “natural sparkling.” The wine is made in a method called méthode ancestrale, which predates the traditional Champagne method. The wine is bottled before the fermentation is complete, and the residual yeast consumes the remaining sugar, creating carbon dioxide, which makes the wine naturally sparkling.
The popularity of Pét Nat is due to its rustic and raw flavor, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer natural wine that hasn’t been manipulated or filtered. Although it’s unfiltered, it doesn’t mean that it’s cloudy. Producers use a variety of techniques, such as riddling to achieve the desired clarity.
The rise in interest has led to experimentation by winemakers who now use different grape varieties, including red grapes, to produce different flavors of Pét Nat.
Pét Nat + Hops
The latest trend in the Pét Nat world is the introduction of beer hops into the production process. Adding hops to the fermentation process gives the Pét Nat an infusion of flavors and aromas similar to beer. It’s become a hit with beer lovers who want to explore the world of natural wine.
The addition of hops also helps preserve the wine, giving it a longer shelf life. It’s a win-win situation for anyone who wants to enjoy a delicious glass of wine without worrying about it going bad too soon.
The Flavor Profile
The addition of hops gives the Pét Nat a unique flavor profile. It has a slightly bitter taste, similar to beer, but with a fruity undertone. The result is a wine that’s easy to drink but with a complexity that’s sure to intrigue any wine lover.
Pairing with Food
Pét Nat with hops is versatile and pairs well with a variety of foods. The bitterness of the hops complements rich meats, such as beef and game, while the fruity notes are perfect with spicy or sweet dishes.
Pét Nat: The Natural Choice
Pét Nat offers a natural and traditional way of producing sparkling wine without the need for added sugar, sulfur, or filtration. It’s a style that respects the grape and the terroir. Pét Nat with hops is a unique and exciting development for wine enthusiasts and beer lovers alike.
As winemakers continue to experiment with grape varieties, production methods, and ingredients, the Pét Nat category will continue to grow, offering an ever-expanding range of flavors and styles to explore. With its natural approach and unique flavor profile, it’s no wonder Pét Nat with hops is quickly becoming a go-to choice for those who want a little bit of everything in their glass.
