2023 Familie Bauer Pet Nat Ursprung Rose

Familie Bauer's 2023 Pet Nat Ursprung Rosé is a captivating natural sparkling wine from Austria's Wagram region. This organic and biodynamic pétillant naturel, affectionately known as "Pet Nat," is crafted from a harmonious blend of 50% Zweigelt and 50% Merlot grapes. The Bauer family, renowned for their commitment to sustainable viticulture, nurtures their vineyards with meticulous care, resulting in a wine that truly reflects the essence of its terroir.

Nose: Wild strawberries and fresh-picked raspberries tumble forward, mingling with crushed rose petals and a whisper of sourdough bread. There's a rustic charm here—hints of orchard fruits, meadow flowers, and wet stone that shift and evolve with each sniff. Underneath lurks a beguiling earthiness you can't quite place.

Palate: Bone-dry with zippy bubbles that tickle rather than assault. Tart red berries and crunchy watermelon flavors wash across your palate, followed by a fascinating savory edge of pink grapefruit and young rhubarb. The natural winemaking shines through in its raw expressiveness—slightly funky but utterly captivating, with a textural complexity that keeps you coming back.

Finish: Crisp and invigorating, with the fine sediment contributing a pleasant grip. Yeasty notes intermingle with lingering red fruit essence and a dash of white pepper. A faint mineral streak runs through it all, reminiscent of summer rain on warm stones. The bubbles slowly fade, leaving behind a mouth-watering tartness that's absolutely addictive.

This unpretentious sparkler plays wonderfully with casual fare—think wood-fired pizza topped with prosciutto and arugula. It stands up to fatty charcuterie while complementing creamy cheeses like burrata or fresh ricotta. The bubbles and acidity make it perfect for fried foods, especially tempura vegetables or crispy chicken sandwiches. For something unexpected, try it with spicy Korean fried chicken—the combination is surprisingly magical.