As the sun beams down, there’s no better way to enjoy a summer day than with a refreshing glass of Pet Nat wine. This effervescent beverage has quickly become a popular choice for many, offering a light, bubbly option that pairs perfectly with the carefree vibe of the season. But despite its newfound popularity, Pet Nat wines trace their origins to an ancient winemaking method, proving that sometimes the old ways are the best. In this article, we’ll explore what makes these wines unique, why they’re an ideal choice for summer, how to pair them with summer dishes, and which varieties are sure to delight this season.
What Are Pet Nat Wines?
Pet Nat wines, short for Pétillant Naturel, are crafted using the Ancestral Method, one of the oldest techniques for producing lightly sparkling wines. Unlike traditional sparkling wines such as Champagne or Cremant, which undergo a second fermentation process, Pet Nat wines complete their fermentation in a single stage. The key lies in bottling the partially fermented juice, allowing the remaining yeast to convert sugar into alcohol. As the fermentation finishes inside the bottle, carbon dioxide is released, creating the wine’s signature bubbles.
One distinctive feature of Pet Nat wines is their natural production process, as they contain no added SO2 or other chemicals. This results in a more natural, unfiltered appearance, often leaving a slight haze and some residual sugar behind. Their unique production method, coupled with the variety of grapes used, allows Pet Nat wines to offer a diverse range of styles and flavours, from crisp whites to rosy hues to even deep reds, making them a versatile option for summer sipping.
Fun Fact: The Ancestral Method, used in making Pet Nat wines, predates the Champagne Method, making it one of the oldest ways of producing sparkling wine!
Why Pet Nat Wines Are Perfect for Summer
Pet Nat wines are an ideal summer beverage due to their light, bubbly nature, which perfectly complements warm weather and relaxed social gatherings. Their natural fermentation process results in a lower alcohol content compared to other wines, making them an excellent option for leisurely afternoons or picnics in the park. The presence of some residual sugar also lends a touch of sweetness, balancing out the acidity and making Pet Nat wines a refreshing and enjoyable choice for hot days.
Moreover, Pet Nat wines’ variety of styles, from Sampagnino Rosa to Jung & Sexy, allows them to cater to a range of tastes and preferences, ensuring there’s a suitable option for every palate. Their versatility also makes them an excellent choice for pairing with summer dishes, from light salads to grilled seafood, further enhancing the dining experience.
Pairing Pet Nat Wines with Summer Foods
The diverse styles and flavours of Pet Nat wines make them a delightful companion to summer meals. For light, refreshing dishes such as salads or ceviche, a crisp white or rosé Pet Nat wine, such as Prends Moi Sec XXI, offers a subtle acidity that complements the meal. For heartier fare, such as grilled meats or barbecued dishes, a deeper red or orange Pet Nat, like Orange on the Leaves 2023, provides a balanced sweetness and robustness to match the flavours of the food.
Additionally, Pet Nat wines’ natural fermentation process and variety of grape types allow them to pair well with a range of international cuisines, from Italian pasta dishes to Asian-inspired meals, offering a unique, versatile experience that elevates any dining occasion.
Popular Pet Nat Wines to Try This Summer
This summer, indulge in a variety of Pet Nat wines that cater to a range of tastes:
- Sampagnino Rosa: A delightful rosé Pet Nat with fruity undertones, perfect for light dishes and summer gatherings.
- Jung & Sexy: A vibrant and refreshing option with balanced acidity, ideal for sipping by the pool.
- Prends Moi Sec XXI: A crisp and refreshing white wine that pairs well with salads and seafood, offering a subtle tang.
- Orange on the Leaves 2023: A robust and flavorful choice, balancing sweetness and acidity, making it an excellent match for grilled meats and spicy foods.
- Artigli: A deep red Pet Nat, providing a bold option for those looking to enjoy a wine with complexity and depth.
These selections provide a glimpse into the diverse range of Pet Nat wines available, ensuring that there is an option to suit every palate and occasion this summer.
How to Serve Pet Nat Wines
Serving Pet Nat Wines requires careful handling to ensure they retain their delightful sparkle and taste. These wines should be chilled before serving, ideally between 6-8°C, to preserve their refreshing qualities and enhance their effervescence. It’s recommended to chill the bottle for a few hours before opening, avoiding rapid chilling methods such as freezing, which could disturb the wine’s balance.
Glassware also plays an essential role in the experience. A standard wine glass works well, allowing the wine to breathe and its aromas to open up. For those who prefer a more traditional approach, flute glasses can also be used, as they help preserve the bubbles longer, adding to the wine’s effervescence.
Pet Nat Wines are perfect for various occasions, from casual picnics to more formal gatherings. Their natural flavours and lively bubbles make them a versatile option, suitable for everything from relaxed summer lunches to celebratory toasts.
Finding Pet Nat Wines at Pure Wine Online Wine Shop
For those looking to enjoy a variety of Pet Nat Wines, Pure Wine is a reliable option. This Online Wine Shop In London offers a diverse selection of natural wines, including several Pet Nat Wines from around the world. Their carefully curated collection ensures that each bottle is of the highest quality, reflecting the rich variety available in the natural wine market.
Pure Wine’s online platform makes sourcing these wines convenient, providing detailed descriptions of each bottle, including its origin, grape variety, and tasting notes. Whether you’re looking for a light rosé to accompany a summer picnic or a robust red to pair with a hearty meal, Pure Wine’s collection ensures you find the perfect match for any occasion.
Conclusion
Pet Nat Wines offer a delightful blend of tradition and modernity, making them an ideal choice for summer celebrations. Their natural production method, diverse range of styles, and refreshing qualities make them a versatile option for various occasions. Whether enjoying a casual picnic, a dinner party, or a special celebration, Pet Nat Wines bring a touch of elegance and joy to any gathering. With options available from Pure Wine Online Wine Shop, finding the perfect bottle has never been easier, ensuring that your summer is filled with sparkling moments.
FAQs
- What is a Pet Nat Wine? A lightly sparkling wine made using the Ancestral Method, with one fermentation.
- How does Pet Nat Wines differ from Champagne? They undergo a single fermentation, compared to Champagne’s two.
- What’s the best way to serve Pet Nat Wines? Chill between 6-8°C, and serve in a wine or flute glass.
- What foods pair well with Pet Nat Wines? Light salads, seafood, grilled meats, and spicy dishes.
- Where can I buy Pet Nat Wines? Pure Wine Online Wine Shop offers a diverse selection.
