2022 Lethbridge Méthode Ancestrale

Ripper sparkling — ancient method, modern excellence. The 2022 Lethbridge Méthode Ancestrale is a captivating natural sparkling wine crafted using the oldest sparkling wine method in existence — predating even the traditional Champagne method — resulting in a wine of extraordinary authenticity, natural character and unique textural complexity that cannot be replicated by modern methods.

Méthode Ancestrale — the ancient method, where the wine is bottled before primary fermentation is complete, allowing natural sugars to create carbonation through continued fermentation in bottle. The result: natural sediment, gentle organic bubbles, lower alcohol and a distinctive cloudy golden character that speaks of authentic, artisanal winemaking at its most pure. From Lethbridge Wines — one of Geelong's most celebrated and respected producers, founded by scientists Ray Nadeson and Maree Collis. Outstanding value at $31 (on sale from $35).

Geelong, VIC

$31 a bottle (on sale from $35)
Méthode Ancestrale • Lethbridge • Geelong

"Méthode Ancestrale — the oldest sparkling wine method in existence, predating Champagne. Lethbridge's natural sparkling of extraordinary authenticity and unique character. Ripper sparkling at $31."

About Méthode Ancestrale

Méthode Ancestrale — the ancestral method — is the oldest technique for creating sparkling wine, predating even the traditional Champagne méthode champenoise. The wine is bottled before primary fermentation is complete, allowing the natural sugars remaining in the wine to create carbonation through continued fermentation in bottle. The result is a wine of extraordinary natural character — with natural sediment, gentle organic bubbles, lower alcohol and a distinctive cloudy golden appearance that speaks of authentic, artisanal winemaking at its most pure and unmanipulated. Unlike traditional method sparkling, the wine is not disgorged — the natural sediment remains in the bottle, a mark of authenticity and natural winemaking integrity.

The Complete Lethbridge Range at Liquid Vibe

Four extraordinary expressions from one of Geelong's most celebrated producers — from the ancient to the pinnacle:

• Méthode Ancestrale 2022 — Ancient method natural sparkling. Most accessible. $31.
• Nadeson Collis Inception NV — 93pts Halliday & WF. Entry-level traditional method sparkling. $55.
• Nadeson Collis Rosé de Saignée 2020 — 95pts Halliday. Saignée method rosé. $70.
• Nadeson Collis Coda NV — 96pts Halliday & WF. The final word. Pinnacle sparkling. $140.

About Lethbridge Wines

Lethbridge Wines is one of Geelong's most celebrated and respected producers, founded by scientists Ray Nadeson and Maree Collis — two scientists who have applied extraordinary scientific rigour and precision to cool-climate winemaking in Geelong with remarkable results. The Méthode Ancestrale represents a different dimension of Lethbridge's winemaking philosophy — the ancient method alongside the modern precision of the Nadeson Collis range, exploring the full spectrum of sparkling wine production from the oldest to the most refined.

Tasting Notes

Appearance:
Cloudy golden with natural sediment and gentle, organic bubbles — authentically natural and deeply characterful.

Aroma:
Complex and naturally expressive with:

• fresh orchard fruits, honey and wild flowers
• subtle yeast character from natural fermentation
• the authentic, artisanal character of méthode ancestrale winemaking

Natural sparkling of extraordinary aromatic authenticity — the orchard fruit freshness and wild flower character of natural fermentation beautifully expressed through Lethbridge's celebrated ancestral method winemaking.

Palate:
Naturally textured with extraordinary character.
Expect layers of:

• ripe pear, apple and orchard fruit
• a distinctive earthy minerality
• natural sweetness balanced by vibrant acidity
• the unique texture and character of natural sediment and organic bubbles

Finish:
Long and textured with a beautiful balance of natural sweetness and effervescence.

Wine Details

• Vintage: 2022
• Method: Méthode Ancestrale (ancient method, natural fermentation in bottle)
• Region: Geelong, VIC
• Producer: Lethbridge Wines
• Winemakers: Ray Nadeson and Maree Collis
• Note: Contains natural sediment — serve chilled, gently swirl or decant to taste
• Serving Temperature: 8–12°C
• Cellaring: Drink now – 2026 (best enjoyed fresh)

Food Pairings

• Soft and fresh cheeses
• Fruit tarts and stone fruit desserts
• Foie gras and rich patés
• As a unique and characterful aperitif

Why We Love It

This is ripper sparkling — ancient method, modern excellence. Lethbridge's Méthode Ancestrale, the oldest sparkling wine method in existence, producing a wine of extraordinary authenticity, natural character and unique textural complexity.
At $31 (on sale from $35), it delivers outstanding natural sparkling character and the most accessible entry point to the Lethbridge range — and the most accessible sparkling in the Liquid Vibe range.

Discover the ancient art of sparkling wine production — where tradition meets terroir in its purest form.