Pét Nat from the Cape: The Crown Cap Approach

Pét Nat is the delightful abbreviation for Pétillant Naturel, which translates to “naturally sparkling.” Often referenced as the Méthode Ancestrale, it denotes the "method of the ancestors,” marking a very traditional way of producing sparkling wine.

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

Some winemakers remove the sediment later through “degorging,” while others leave it for added complexity in the wine. This results in Pét Nats often appearing slightly cloudy or hazy. This natural cloudiness is not a flaw but an essential part of its character, making the wine exciting and unique.

This leads us to another peculiarity: Each Pét Nat is essentially a small gem, leading to slight variations from bottle to bottle. Many argue 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 diversity.

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

This results in a sparkling wine that is often fruity and floral, sometimes slightly earthy or funky – yet always fresh, vibrant, and unpretentious. Indeed, Pét Nat is a wine to be enjoyed young, perfect for those who relish it unfiltered and unaltered.

However, one should be aware that the Méthode Ancestrale presents its challenges. A lot of patience, skill, and finely tuned senses are required to lead the wines through fermentation smoothly. Otherwise, there can be too much or not enough fizz. But when everything aligns, the reward is a sparkling pleasure that is deliciously unpredictable.

No wonder curious enthusiasts, wine lovers with a taste for authenticity, and fans of small winery projects are some of its biggest supporters.

Matthew Copeland – our friend & Pét Nat pioneer at 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 become a small trend – and Steffi has long joined the ranks of passionate fans.

The Pét Nats in our collection:

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