Big Belly Breathing

12.1 "Cheese & Burritos" Episode 3: Pet Nats ***NEW***

• Vanessa Hutchinson-Szekely

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Welcome back to “Cheese & Burritos”! This is our third full episode, so it's unlocked but moving forward, this is our exclusive series for valued subscribers!

I’m thrilled to kick off our journey with an exploration of the delightful fusion between French and Californian cultures.  In this new episode, we dive into the world of Pet Nats, or Pétillant Naturel, which is just French for “naturally sparkling.”

We’ll explore what makes pét-nat so unique, how it’s made, and why it’s quickly becoming a favorite among wine lovers. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or just curious about this fizzy delight, this episode is sure to pique your interest and maybe even inspire your next wine adventure. Cheers!​

Thank you for supporting me and my small business. Your support means the world, and I’m excited to share this culinary journey with you. Tune in and let’s embrace the beauty of French and Californian fusion, one delicious bite at a time. Bon appétit!

Places mentioned in this episode:
- Slake Bottle & Sundry in San Francisco
- Le Nez en l'Air in Samoens, France


Intro/Outro music by Jef Shadoan


Support the show

Big Belly Breathing (BBB) is an audio program primarily for kids in English and French focusing on health and wellness, started by Vanessa Hutchinson-Szekely.

As a teacher, a parent of bilingual kids & a yoga instructor/social emotional learner facilitator and holistic health & wellness coach, Vanessa wants to encourage children to thrive through establishing daily health habits.

Healthy Habits = Happy Kids

While listening, kids learn techniques to increase their creativity and attention spans. By practicing mindfulness, breathing, & gratitude kids experience mini-moments of deep rest that help them to reset, restore and recalibrate.

In today's busy world of multi-tasking, BBB is a place to help kids get centered, grounded and feel good. By practicing techniques learned here, kids develop their own self-care rituals, routines and habits.

These tools benefit their mind, body and heart health and set them up for greater joy in their present lives, and as adults.

So that kids aren't the only ones reaping these benefits, Vanessa has also included meditations specifically for older teens or adults!

And, there's now a sub series called "Cheese & Burritos" about lifestyle and cultural phenomenons in California and France! Eventually, this exclusive series will be only for subscribers. Enjoy the current unlocked episodes :)

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Podcast Script: “Fizz, Fun, and Pet-Nat Magic”



Hello, friends! Welcome to our 3rd episode of “Cheese & Burritos” where we explore topics related to living mindfully and boosting our joy. I’m Vanessa Hutchinson-Szekely, your French-Californian guide on this delicious journey. Today, we’re diving into something super fun, a little bit wild, and a whole lot of fizzy—Pet-Nats! AKA, my absolute fave bev.



That’s right! Pet-Nat, or Pétillant Naturel if you’re feeling long form. But what exactly is this trendy, effervescent drink that’s taking the wine world by storm? Well, grab a glass—preferably with something fizzy in it—and let’s break it down.


Segment 1: What is Pet-Nat?


First things first, Pet-Nat is short for Pétillant Naturel, which is just French for “naturally sparkling.” But don’t let the name fool you—this wine is all about embracing the beauty of the unpredictable.

So, how does it work? Unlike traditional Champagne, where the bubbles are carefully controlled with a second fermentation in the bottle, Pet-Nat is the free spirit of the wine world. It’s made using an ancient method called méthode ancestrale—sounds like a spell, right? (laughs) But all that means is that the wine is bottled before the first fermentation is complete. The yeast keeps munching on the sugars, creating a natural, gentle fizz right in the bottle.


Segment 2: The Appeal of Pet-Nat


So why is Pet-Nat so popular? Well, for one, it’s like the craft beer of the wine world. Each bottle is unique, with its own personality, and you never quite know what you’re going to get until you pop it open. Sometimes it’s a little cloudy, maybe even a bit funky, but always refreshing, and full of life.

It’s also super accessible—both in terms of flavor and price. Pet-Nats tend to be lower in alcohol, which makes them great for sipping at brunch or as an aperitif. Plus, they’re often made by small, independent producers who are passionate about organic and biodynamic practices, so you’re supporting the little guys every time you crack one open. And who doesn’t love that?


Segment 3: How to Enjoy Pet-Nat


Okay, so now you’ve got a bottle of Pet-Nat in hand—how do you enjoy it? Well, first things first, don’t worry too much about pairing. Pet-Nat is incredibly versatile. Think of it as the life of the party—it gets along with just about everyone. As my dad, Lex Hutchinson, used to say…everyone’s invited to the party, just maybe not all at the same time. Loved my pops. 


Try it with soft cheeses, charcuterie, or even spicy dishes. And don’t forget the setting! Pet-Nat is perfect for a picnic, a beach day, or just lounging on your balcony. Serve it chilled, and because of the sediment that can form, pour it gently—unless you’re into that cloudy vibe, which I totally respect. (laughs)


Segment 4: Fun Facts and Final Thoughts


Here are a few fun facts to impress your friends with:

1. Unexpected Origins: Pet-Nat isn’t just a French thing! Winemakers all over the world are getting in on the action, from California to Australia. Yes, there are fantastic ones in our very own backyard. Currently, I’m in the French alps and loving some local ones from here, but as I’m returning to SF shortly, i’ll probably opt for CA ones soon…


2. No Rules: Because Pet-Nat is so loosely defined, you’ll find a huge variety—red, white, rosé, and even orange!


3. Low Sulfites: Most Pet-Nats have little to no added sulfites, which is great if you’re sensitive to them.


So, next time you’re looking for something fun, fizzy, and just a little bit funky, grab a bottle of Pet-Nat. It’s a great way to explore the world of natural wine without taking yourself too seriously. After all, wine should be fun, right?




That’s it for today’s episode of “Cheese & Burritos” I hope you’ve enjoyed this little adventure into the world of Pet-Nats. Don’t forget to subscribe, as moving forward, these eps will be for subscribers only. 


Until next time, keep it bubbly!

Cheers, everyone!