Ancestral Wine

Ancestral Method

The ancestral method of wine production is one of the most fascinating and historical techniques for making sparkling wines. This recently rediscovered process has deep historical roots and is distinguished by its ability to preserve the purity of the wine. Unlike other sparkling wine techniques, the ancestral method does not involve adding external yeasts and relies exclusively on the natural ones found on the grape skins. But how exactly does it work, and what makes this technique so special?

How is Ancestral Wine Made?

The production of wine using the ancestral method begins with a gentle pressing of the grapes, allowing the natural yeasts present on the skins to be preserved. Fermentation starts as with other wines but is not fully completed. Once the must reaches a certain level of fermentation, the wine is bottled, trapping the yeasts and residual sugar inside. This second fermentation is what creates the characteristic bubbles of sparkling wine. However, unlike other methods such as the traditional method or the Charmat method, fermentation in the ancestral method does not take place in a pressure tank but directly in the bottle. The wine is then left to mature on the lees, a process that can last weeks or even months, depending on climatic conditions and the type of wine. This process gives the wine a unique character, with yeasty notes and a certain cloudiness due to the presence of the lees, which remain at the bottom of the bottle.

What Are Ancestral Wines?

Ancestral wines are those produced with this technique, differing significantly from other sparkling wines both in method and final result. Some of the most well-known ancestral sparkling wines come from various Italian and French regions, including Piedmont, Champagne, and the Limoux region in France.

The main types of ancestral wines include:

• White wine (ancestral method): Produced with white grape varieties, known for their freshness and acidity.
• Sparkling wine (ancestral method): A category that includes naturally sparkling wines, characterized by a finer and less aggressive perlage compared to other sparkling methods.
• Ancestral method wine: Any wine, white or red, that follows this unique production technique.

The rediscovery of this method has led to a true revival of ancestral wine. Wines like “Pet Nat” (Pétillant Naturel) are now appreciated not only for their distinctive taste but also for the philosophy behind the winemaking process, which aims to respect the natural essence of the wine and its traditional production.

Ancestral Method vs. Traditional Method: The Differences

One of the main differences between the ancestral method and the traditional method is the second fermentation. In the ancestral method, fermentation occurs in the bottle without the use of external yeasts, while in the traditional method—used for some of the most famous sparkling wines—the second fermentation takes place in large bottles called “magnum” or “tirage.”

Furthermore, the traditional method includes disgorgement, a process in which the lees are removed from the bottle, while in the ancestral method, the lees remain at the bottom, giving the wine greater complexity and richer flavors.

As a result, ancestral sparkling wines tend to be cloudier, with a gentler carbonation and more yeasty notes than traditional sparkling wines. Despite being an ancient technique, the ancestral method is experiencing a real revival, thanks to the growing interest in natural wines and sustainable production methods.

The Price of Ancestral Wine

When discussing ancestral wine prices, it’s important to consider that, despite being a traditional technique, these wines can be more expensive than other sparkling wines made with more industrialized methods. This is due to the limited production, longer aging times, and the meticulous management of lees and bottle fermentation.

However, the value of an ancestral wine is not just about its price but also the unique experience it offers—a sip of history, tradition, and quality.

The ancestral method in winemaking represents a fascinating rediscovery of ancient winemaking traditions, continuing to captivate wine lovers. Whether it’s an ancestral method sparkling wine or an ancestral white wine, every bottle tells a story of passion and respect for the wine’s natural character.

If you want to discover the true meaning of this tradition and taste an authentic wine, the ancestral method is undoubtedly a must-try choice.

Visit our website to explore our selection of ancestral method wines, and immerse yourself in the world of natural bubbles!