João Pato aka Duckman 'Maria Duck - Pet Nat' Brut Pétillant Naturel, Portugal NV

João Pato — known as “Duckman” — is a playful, boundary-pushing producer in Portugal crafting natural wines with personality and precision. Coming from the historic Bairrada wine family of Luís Pato, João brings a modern, low-intervention mindset to traditional grapes and methods. His Pét-Nat wines embrace spontaneity and energy, bottled before fermentation is complete to capture pure fruit and vibrant fizz.

• WINEMAKER: João Pato

• FARMING: Sustainable 

• VARIETY: 100% Fernão Pires (also known locally as Maria Gomes)

• TERROIR: Coastal Portuguese vineyards influenced by Atlantic breezes, promoting freshness, bright acidity, and aromatic lift.

• VINIFICATION: Produced via the ancestral method (pét-nat), bottled before primary fermentation finishes to create natural carbonation; minimal intervention and no fining or filtration.

• AGING: Short resting period in bottle on lees before release to preserve youthful character.

• TASTING NOTES: Lively and cloudy with aromas of orchard fruit, citrus peel, and wild herbs. The palate is crisp, lightly yeasty, and refreshing with soft mousse and a dry, energetic finish.

• FOOD PAIRINGS: Aperitif service, fried seafood, tapas, picnic fare, or salty snacks.