By Lindsay Childerhose
The wine community is calling them “Hipster Bubbles” and your trendy friends won’t stop talking about them. So what’s the deal with Pét-Nat Wines? Here’s five facts about Pét-Nats that just might explain the hype.
They’re More Like a Cider
Pét-Nat is short for Pétillant Naturel, which translates from French to “natural sparkling”. You might find them on the shelves beside Prosecco, Champagne and other easy drinking wines, but Pét-Nats are often cloudier and more casual to drink.
They’re Not Champagne
Like two siblings who hate being compared, Pét-Nats and Champagne are not the same. The main difference? Champagne undergoes two separate fermentations, while Pét-Nats combine this process into one. Pét-Nat is made fizzy by bottling the wine before the primary ferment is complete. The result? A drier, fruiter and more rustic sparkling wine.
They’re Healthier for You
Pét-Nats have a naturally low alcohol content and no added sugar or preservatives, making them a healthier alternative to Prosecco and other sparking wines that are typically loaded with sugar.
They Cost Less
No need to search the pricier aisle. These bottles of bubbly are lower in price compared to high rollers like Champagne and Prosecco. Pét-Nats are usually between $20-$30, making them affordable and adding to their appeal.
There’s Nothing New About Them
Despite being the latest trend amongst food and wine lovers, Pét-Nats are actually nothing new. In fact, the technique used to make Pét-Nat wine has been around longer than its Champagne counter-part.
