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Château le Payral logbook #3: Le Payral released its Pet Nat…”

It wasn’t for lack of desire, but we hadn’t yet found the opportunity to create a sparkling natural wine cuvée. Now, we’ve achieved it with the 2023 vintage, a cuvée from young Ugni Blanc vines, replanted in our quest for freshness and vivacity. Pet-Nat is a method for producing sparkling wine used worldwide. This Ancestral Method involves bottling wine that is only partially fermented.

As the primary and only fermentation continues in the bottle, the resulting carbon dioxide (CO²) is trapped. After a resting period of up to a few months, the gas is absorbed into the wine as bubbles, and the natural sparkling wine is ready to drink.

Its color leans towards a slightly cloudy straw yellow, as this wine is, of course, unfiltered. The bubbles are fine and lively, creating a light and persistent mousse. Expect fresh, fruity aromas of white fruits like pear and apple, as well as citrus notes like grapefruit. On the palate, the acidity is vibrant and refreshing, with a hint of bitterness. The texture is light and lively, with a pleasant sparkling sensation that invites another sip, especially since it is low in alcohol.

‘Pet’Arts’ is the name of this cuvée we designed to be cheerful, simple, and festive. The label, created by our friend Isabelle Lacombe, evokes the pop art style and the aesthetic of the 1970s. It suggests a dynamic and joyful atmosphere, reflecting the wine’s liveliness and pleasure.

This first attempt – successful – is limited in volume and has already found its way into the export market with some of our clients. The 2024 vintage is on the way: a blend of Ugni Blanc and Muscadelle. It should be available for sale in December.