Paserene
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In Their Words
Paserene History & Location
Owned by third generation wine-maker Martin Smith and his collaborative partner Ndabe Mareda, Paserene is a small, family-operated winery on the outskirts of Franschhoek, with a sole purpose to produce high-end, luxury wines.
Capturing an experience in a bottle takes patience, balance, and creativity and these three words perfectly sum up the nature of Paserene. From our bespoke labels created by exceptional artists, to our elegant wines from three distinctive terroirs (Franschhoek, Tulbagh and Elgin), the golden thread that runs through our wine estate is attention to detail.
When you step inside our tasting lounge, inspired by the nest of the migratory swallow, you will be struck by the natural beauty of our wine farm which is reflected in each of our award-winning wines. Spend the day leisurely sipping on one of our magnificent wines, surrounded by the manicured gardens of our wine estate and undisturbed views of the Franschhoek mountains.
Paserene Operating Hours
Wine Tasting: open daily 10am-5pm (groups larger than 7, please pre-book).
*PLEASE NOTE*
All times, prices and facilities listed are subject to change. We recommend checking latest details directly with the farm and pre-booking experiences wherever possible, to avoid disappointment.
Paserene Wine Tasting
Paserene’s wine tasting room is truly something special. Conceptualised and designed by SCS Architects, glass stack doors allow for the whole building to become an open structure, transforming the beautiful exterior into a natural extension of the interior.
The facilities overlook a small dam on our wine estate, a clever nod towards the swallow’s habit of swooping over water and it is here you can sample our range of wines and snacks to accompany your tasting.
Wine Tasting Prices
The Elements Range tasting of 4 wines costs from R95pp and includes a white, rosé and two reds. The Paserene Signature Tasting includes 4 of our premium wines for R200pp.
A selection of small plates are available to order individually to accompany your tasting. These include olives, cheeses, crackers, our own fynbos honey and charcuterie – or a larger platter for 2 is available, priced from R300.
Paserene Restaurants
There is no full service restaurant at Paserene however snacks are available – or Franschhoek is less than 10 mins away by car.
Paserene Tours & Activities
Currently Paserene do not offer cellar or vineyard tours but often host bespoke events including small parties, intimate weddings, conferences and special tastings in our contemporary tasting lounge. Contact the farm for more information.
Want to visit Paserene but don’t want to drive? We are currently featured on the Franschhoek Wine Tram which allows you to immerse yourself in the wine culture of the town without having to worry about your car. Please refer to www.winetram.co.za/ for more information and prices.
When Lucy Visited
Unashamedly contemporary and chic, intimate Paserene is a breath of serene fresh air. Here, the wine experience takes centre stage in the stylish tasting lounge, designed to maximise its glorious natural setting with majestic mountain views.
So What Makes Paserene Stand Out?
There’s no denying Franschhoek is well known for its historic Cape Dutch architecture, ancient French heritage and romantic hospitality, however what’s making it an increasingly diverse and innovative place to visit are wine farms such as Paserene, who are breaking the mould in terms of their contemporary architecture, bold and different wines and intimate service. Which other wine tasting rooms have you visited in South Africa which have been inspired by the nest of the migratory swallow?!
It may be small in size, however this tranquil farm packs a memorable punch. Just look at those views! I visited on a quiet Sunday when there was not a breath of wind and it was utterly blissful sitting back, soaking up the birdsong, the glistening views of the small dam and distant mountains, whilst tucking into a delicious platter and boutique wines. There’s even croquet available on the lawn! If you love modern wine farms, Paserene is simply not to be missed and is an easy add on to any visit to Franschhoek.
So What About The Farm Itself?
Paserene sits just off the main R45 road as you approach Franschhoek, around 5 kilometres before the town. It’s a relatively new kid on the block having only been open 5 years, however is easy to access and boasts gorgeous views in all directions (there’s a little road noise but nothing too hectic). If you don’t want to drive, you can also visit as part of the hop on hop off Franschhoek Wine Tram, which stops here.
For visitors, the farm is easy to navigate. You have the ‘Birds Nest’ Tasting Lounge which discreetly blends into the natural setting (with its spacious deck overlooking the small dam and pretty gardens), plus adjacent large lawns where at the time of my visit, you could also play a spot of croquet. How fancy! These lawns border vineyards too, so it’s very peaceful and green.
Inside the Tasting Lounge, there are a number of tables to suit small and medium sized groups – and due to the extensive use of glass it’s bathed in light, with both retractable stacking doors and fireplaces, so ideal for summer, winter or a rainy day. We sat outside on the deck and as you can see from the pictures it was jaw droppingly beautiful. No facilities for kids, but you are welcome to bring them.
What About The Wine Tasting?
Paserene offer two tastings. 4 wines from their everyday Elements Range costs R95pp, or for R200pp you can try 3 of their finer Signature Wines, served in elegant Riedel specific glassware (expensive glasses shaped specifically to each varietal, bringing out the best of each wine’s flavour profile) plus 1 wine from their Elements Range. You might think R200 is quite pricey for a tasting but I tried one of these Signature wines – the ‘Marathon Red’ and boy did it blow my socks off! Rich, smooth, full bodied and juicy. These are elegant wines designed for ageing and most retail for around R650 a bottle so R200 is reflective of the quality..
The 4 wines in the Elements Range available for tasting include a Chardonnay (called Bright), Sauvignon Blanc (Emerald), a mixed varietal rose (Rosie) and a Syrah (Darker). I’m a sucker for a full bodied red so my top pick was the ‘Darker’; smoky and spicy on the palate with pink peppercorns, plums and chocolate.
Paserene source their grapes from several vineyards including their own wine farm in Tulbagh, plus here in Franschhoek and the cooler climate Elgin region. They pride themselves on making handcrafted, boutique wines with minimal additions so expect the unexpected slightly, which I think is great. Service was excellent with friendly and attentive staff who spoke in detail about each wine.
If you visit, don’t miss ordering some small deli plates as the quality of food is excellent. We built our own platter but you can also choose various charcuterie meats, olives, cheeses, plus nuts and even trout. The best thing on that plate? The incredible Fynbos Honeycomb from their Tulbagh farm, the perfect sweet and gooey accompaniment to the cheese. STUNNING! I bought a container to take home!
In Summary
Beautiful simplicity for couples or groups looking for a small but perfectly formed contemporary farm, with premium boutique wines and a million dollar view. What’s not to love?
Top Tip!
If like me you love full bodied reds, skip the Elements Tasting and instead just cut to the chase and order one of their incredible reds by the glass. Paired with a delicious platter and a droolworthy view, you won’t be disappointed!
