Pét Nat from the Cape: Crown Cap Edition

Pét Nat is the charming abbreviation of Pétillant Naturel, meaning “naturally sparkling”. Often referred to as the Méthode Ancestrale, it denotes "the method of ancestors," embodying a very traditional way of producing sparkling wine.

Unlike the classic bottle fermentation (Champagne, Cap Classique), with Pét Nat, the wine is bottled during the initial fermentation. Here, it completes fermentation, developing its pressure – resulting in a naturally sparkling wine. Nothing is added: no sugar, no extra yeast – following the principle of “minimal intervention”.

Some winemakers later remove the sediment through “degorging”, while others allow it to remain for added depth. This means Pét Nats are often slightly cloudy or hazy. This natural cloudiness is not a flaw; it's part of the wine's character, making it intriguing and unique.

This leads us to another feature: Every Pét Nat is a small gem, resulting in slight differences from bottle to bottle. Many say that this is precisely what makes it charming – it's a wine for those who don’t seek perfection in uniformity, but rather in lively variety.

Because this wine ferments and develops pressure naturally, Pét Nats are often sealed under crown caps, which are simply more robust and secure than corks.

This results in a sparkling wine that is often fruity and floral, occasionally slightly earthy or funky, yet always fresh, vibrant, and unpretentious. Indeed, Pét Nat is a wine meant to be enjoyed young, an experience for those who appreciate it unfiltered and unrefined.

However, it’s important to note that the Méthode Ancestrale has its challenges. It requires patience, craftsmanship, and a keen sense to guide the wines through fermentation safely; otherwise, it may bubble over – or not enough. But when successful, the reward is a sparkling pleasure that is deliciously unpredictable.

No wonder curious enthusiasts, wine lovers with a penchant for the authentic, and fans of small producer projects are amongst its biggest supporters.

Matthew Copeland – our friend & Pét Nat pioneer from the Cape

Matthew Copeland from Vondeling is not only an exceptional winemaker but has also become a good friend. He was the first to bring the Méthode Ancestrale to the Cape, vinifying the very first South African Pét Nat. What was once a daring experiment has since become a small trend – and Steffi has long been one of the enthusiastic supporters.

The Pét Nats in our selection:

• Mother Rock Pét Nat – Pure nature from Johan “Stompie” Meyer, wonderfully untamed.
• Ataraxia Pét Nat – Delightfully fragrant and elegant from Hanli Grant (Ataraxia).
• Ken Forrester Pét Nat – The signature of a master.