Exploring pét-nat, natural, organic, and orange wines: trends shaping the future

Natural wines, including Pet Nat (Pétillant Naturel) and orange wines, are taking the wine industry by storm. With growing consumer interest in organic, sustainable, and minimally processed beverages, these unconventional wines are gaining traction with both connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike. As we look toward 2025 and beyond, the appeal of natural, low-intervention wines is expected to expand, reshaping how wine is made, marketed, and consumed.

This guide explores the world of Pet Nat, natural wines, and orange wines, delving into their origins, trends, innovations, and what you can expect from these categories in the coming years. Whether you're a winery looking to enter the market or a wine enthusiast exploring these unique wines, understanding the future of these styles is crucial.

Summary

• Pet Nat wines: Short for "Pétillant Naturel," these sparkling wines are created using the méthode ancestrale, offering a natural, unfiltered alternative to traditional sparkling wines. Their trend is driven by their rustic charm and authenticity.  
• Natural wines: Crafted with minimal intervention, natural wines reflect the pure essence of their terroir, appealing to consumers seeking eco-friendly and less processed options. 
• Orange wines: Made from white grapes fermented with their skins, orange wines provide bold flavors and textures, attracting adventurous drinkers and expanding palates.  
• Organic wines: Made from sustainably grown grapes without synthetic chemicals, organic wines emphasize minimal intervention and purity, reflecting the terroir and promoting ecological balance.
• Growing consumer interest: The demand for sustainable, artisan, and authentic wine experiences is fueling the popularity of these categories.  
• Market opportunities: For wineries, these styles offer a unique selling point that aligns with global trends toward sustainability and authenticity in the beverage industry.  
• Future implications: As these wines gain traction, they are likely to influence winemaking techniques, distribution strategies, and consumer perceptions in the years ahead.

What are natural and organic wines, pet nat, and orange wines?

To understand the trends and innovations in the natural wine world, it’s important to first define the styles that are gaining popularity. Natural wines, including Pet Nat and orange wines, represent a departure from traditional winemaking processes by focusing on minimal intervention, organic farming, and a commitment to preserving the essence of the grape.

Natural wines

Natural wines are made from organically or biodynamically farmed grapes, with little or no intervention in the winemaking process. This means no additives (like sulfites), no fining agents, and minimal filtration. The result is a wine that is more expressive of the terroir (the environment in which the grapes were grown) and the unique characteristics of the grape variety.

Organic wines

Organic wines are made from grapes that are grown without synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers. The winemaking process avoids artificial additives and focuses on natural fermentation, resulting in wines that are a purer expression of the grapes and terroir.

Pet Nat (Pétillant Naturel)

Pet Nat, short for Pétillant Naturel, is a style of sparkling wine made using the méthode ancestrale. This process involves bottling the wine before fermentation is complete, trapping the natural carbonation in the bottle. Pet Nat is typically less fizzy and more rustic than traditional sparkling wines like Champagne, and often has a cloudy appearance due to minimal filtration.

Orange wines

Orange wines are white wines that are made with extended skin contact, resulting in a deep amber or orange color. The process involves fermenting the grapes with their skins, much like red wines, which imparts tannins, texture, and more complex flavors. The result is a wine that can be tannic, rich, and full-bodied, with unique aromas and flavors that are unlike traditional white wines.

The growth of natural and organic wines: Why are they gaining popularity?

As consumers become more mindful of what they eat and drink, natural wines are benefiting from the growing demand for products that are sustainably produced, organic, and free of additives. Natural wines fit well within the broader movement toward health-conscious, transparent, and environmentally friendly consumption.

• Sustainability and organic farming: Natural wines are often produced by wineries that prioritize organic or biodynamic farming practices. This commitment to sustainability is aligned with the growing interest in eco-friendly products and local, organic ingredients.
• Health-conscious consumption: With fewer chemicals and additives, natural wines are seen as a more “pure” option for health-conscious drinkers. Although natural wines are not necessarily “healthy” in the conventional sense, the perception of fewer artificial chemicals and processes appeals to those seeking cleaner products.
• Transparency and authenticity: Natural wines are often marketed with a focus on their minimal intervention approach, appealing to consumers who want transparency in the products they purchase. Wine labels increasingly provide more detailed information about the production process, helping consumers connect more deeply with the wines they drink.

Flavor innovations: what makes pet nat and orange wines unique?

Natural wines like Pet Nat and orange wines are characterized by their bold, experimental flavors that push the boundaries of traditional wine. These wines offer a fresh, new perspective on what wine can be.

Pet Nat

Pet Nat wines are often bubbly, fruity, and refreshingly rustic. They are typically unfiltered, which gives them a cloudy appearance and a more complex, yeasty flavor profile. Pet Nat wines can range from dry to slightly sweet, and their flavors are often influenced by the unique terroir in which the grapes were grown.

• Vibrant and spontaneous flavors: Expect Pet Nat wines to be wild and spontaneous, with flavors that can change from bottle to bottle. They often carry lively notes of citrus, apple, and pear, with a yeasty, bread-like undertone.
• Unpredictability: Since Pet Nat is made using the méthode ancestrale (an older, less controlled method), each bottle is unique. The wine may continue to evolve in the bottle, and some may even undergo secondary fermentation, resulting in slight variations from one batch to the next.

Orange wines

Orange wines are known for their distinctive, rich flavors, which are a result of the prolonged skin contact during fermentation. This style can have a wide range of flavor profiles, from earthy and tannic to bright and floral, depending on the grape variety used and the winemaking techniques.

• Complex, tannic, and bold: Orange wines often have more texture and tannins than traditional white wines. They can be slightly bitter, with flavors of dried fruit, herbs, and spices, making them an ideal pairing for bold, flavorful foods.
• Unique aromas: Expect aromas that are unusual for white wines—think of aromas of tea, dried flowers, and sometimes even honeyed or nutty notes. The extended skin contact imparts a unique depth and richness to the wine.

Packaging trends: eco-friendly, creative, and sustainable designs

As sustainability continues to be a priority for both winemakers and consumers, packaging for natural wines is undergoing a transformation. Expect to see packaging innovations that reflect the values of environmental consciousness and authenticity.

• Minimalist, eco-friendly packaging: Natural wine labels tend to be simple, with minimalistic designs that highlight the organic nature of the wine. Look for eco-friendly packaging materials, such as recycled glass bottles, biodegradable labels, and corks made from sustainable sources.
• Playful, raw aesthetic: Pet Nat and orange wine bottles stand out with their fun, unrefined look. Think hand-drawn designs, muted tones, and rustic labels that embrace a carefree, artisanal vibe— a sharp contrast to the polished, sleek labels of traditional wines.
• Transparent labeling: As consumers demand more transparency, natural wine producers are increasingly providing detailed information about the grape varieties, winemaking processes, and certifications. This shift towards more informative and honest labeling will continue to grow.

The future of pet nat, natural and organic wines, and orange wines

As we move into 2025, the demand for natural wines, including Pet Nat and orange wines, will continue to rise, fueled by consumers’ growing interest in organic, sustainable, and high-quality beverages. The natural wine movement is no longer a niche trend—it’s becoming a mainstream part of the global wine market.

• Increased popularity and accessibility: As more wineries adopt natural wine practices, expect Pet Nat and orange wines to become more accessible, not just in wine bars and specialized retailers, but also in grocery stores and large distributors.
• Expanding flavor profiles: As winemakers experiment with different grapes, terroirs, and techniques, expect the flavor profiles of Pet Nat and orange wines to continue evolving, offering consumers an even broader range of options.
• Continued focus on sustainability: Natural wines will lead the charge in sustainability, with wineries pushing for more eco-friendly packaging, energy-efficient practices, and reduced environmental footprints.

Conclusion: the evolution of natural and organic wines

Natural and organic wines are changing the way we think about wine. Their emphasis on minimal intervention, sustainability, and unique flavors is challenging traditional winemaking norms and opening the door to new possibilities. Whether you’re a winemaker looking to enter the market or a consumer interested in exploring the vibrant world of natural wines, the future is bright for these dynamic, innovative styles.

In 2025 and beyond, expect these wines to continue their rise, bringing fresh flavors, creativity, and authenticity to the wine world.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are natural wines?‍

Natural wines are made with minimal intervention, using organic or biodynamic grapes and little to no additives. They emphasize purity and terroir, with little filtration.

What is Pet Nat wine?‍

Pet Nat (Pétillant Naturel) is a style of sparkling wine made using the méthode ancestrale. It’s bottled before fermentation is complete, creating natural carbonation and a rustic, cloudy appearance.

What makes orange wine different from other white wines?

Orange wines are made by fermenting white grapes with their skins, similar to red wine, which gives them a tannic structure and a rich, amber color with unique flavors.

Why are natural wines becoming more popular?

Consumers are drawn to natural wines for their organic farming practices, minimal intervention, sustainability, and the unique, expressive flavors they offer.

Can I find Pet Nat or orange wines at my local store?

Yes, Pet Nat and orange wines are becoming more widely available. As the natural wine movement grows, many retailers and wine bars are expanding their selection to include these wines.

How can I get started with natural wines?

Start by trying a few different styles of Pet Nat, orange wine, or other natural wines to discover what suits your palate. Ask for recommendations at your local wine shop or bar, where natural wines are increasingly offered.

How does Outshinery help with natural wine photography?  

Outshinery specializes in capturing the unique qualities of your wine through stunning, high-quality photography. Whether you’re showcasing natural, Pet Nat, or orange wines, we ensure that even the unique characteristics—like sediments or cloudiness—are beautifully highlighted. Our team creates images that embrace your wine’s authenticity and elevate your brand.