The 18 best places to enjoy a pét nat around Australia

If you’ve glanced at a wine list or visited a bottle-o in the past five years, you’ve probably noticed the pét nat craze. Short for ‘pétillant naturel’, the name translates from French as ‘lightly sparkling’. However, unlike other sparkling wines or Champagne, the bubbles are the natural result of fermentation and involve minimal intervention.

In other words, there’s no sugar or yeast added, and no maturation in a tank or barrel. Pét nats are bottled while they’re still undergoing fermentation and sealed without further ado. The resulting wine leans towards funky and sour, rather than floral and fruity – think rustic and a bit kooky (but absolutely delish).

Despite many people seeing pét nats as a relatively new fad, it’s one of the oldest winemaking methods in the world, and we believe (when done right) it should have a firm place on wine lists the world over. Pét nats are also a good reminder not to always take wine so seriously – sometimes the point is to just have something fun and tasty in your glass.

If you happen to be in Australia, count yourself lucky there are plenty of bars and restaurants who feel the same way. These bars know their pét nats and stock some of the most intriguing natural fizz this country has to offer. 

Where’s Nick is a cosy little wine bar with a laidback vibe and distinct lack of pretension that confirms you don’t have to act like a tool to enjoy out-of-the-ordinary drinks. Golden Gully in Leichhardt has a similar focus on accessibility and new-wave winemakers, with an impressive range of pét nats and biodynamic numbers. There’s an all-Aussie ethos when it comes to both decor and drinks, alongside a menu starring locally-made produce. 

Also fabulous: Odd Culture and Marrickville Hotel.

For phenomenal pét nats and top-notch snacks in Adelaide, head to Leigh Street Wine Room (pictured top) and let the staff recommend a glass (or bottle) of lo-fi wine. Whether you want lightly-fizzed and fruity or bone-dry and refreshing, there’s something for everyone.

Also fabulous: La Buvette

Besk is your go-to for pét nats in Perth. Don’t get overwhelmed by the double-sided A5 menu of wines by the glass – the friendly bar staff will help you choose a different-but-not-too-different drop. Alternatively, head to Petition Wine Merchant, a polished wine bar focused on producers who work organically. The staff will happily share their by-the-glass picks, and the bar-and-shop model means you can discover a new favourite and buy bottles of it to take home with you right away.

Also fabulous: Wines of While and Foxtrot Unicorn.