Paserene’s first Dark release, a full-bodied and brooding 2018 Syrah in its Elements collection, is a wonderful representative of the winemaker’s goal of attractive and honest expression.
This Syrah, with aromas of spicy treacle, cherries, and ancient leather, was made from grapes cultivated in Tulbagh clay soils and Franschhoek sand soils. These two famous wine districts, together with vineyards in Elgin, serve as the palette for Paserene co-owner and third-generation winemaker Martin Smith’s creations.
The winery’s two lines are derived from these: the high-end Paserene and the wilder Elements.
Elements reflects the winery’s attitude of independence. The name paserene is derived from Latin and refers to migrating birds, such as the little swallow shown on its labels. The birds spend the most of their lives flying. “The unrestricted search of ultimate expression is inspired by the freedom of these perpetual travelers.” “This feeling of freedom is what we aim to transmit via our wines,” Martin explains.
The packaging of Dark, as well as the whole line, conveys this endeavor. A child’s swing portrayed on the label — work by renowned artist Carmen Ziervogel – implies a pleasant, carefree environment. It is the wine’s invitation to the drinker to take an introspective trip and savor every moment in a sip.
“Our wines are quite valuable to us,” Martin continues. “With it comes a sense of duty and a sincere dedication to the wine enthusiast.” For Elements, we distill the wine to its essence while having fun with it.”
The name of the series refers not only to the three wine regions – Tulbagh, Franschhoek, and Elgin – but also to the fruit character that each offers.
Elgin is the coldest, with Bokkeveld shale soils. The environment is ideal for fragrant grapes, since it allows them to keep their brilliant acidity. Franschhoek is more temperate, making it excellent for cultivating delicate, exquisite wines. Mountain shadows cool any heat and provide character to the wine. The warmest of the three is Tulbagh in the Breede River Valley.
Cool nights and degraded shale soils are additional distinguishing features. Grapes produce intense flavors while preserving acidity in this atmosphere. Wines become more robust and potent as a result.
Elements Dark 2018 evolved from this DNA as a deep and robust wine with typical varietal characteristics. In addition to the previously described fragrances and flavors, there’s blackcurrant and cola on an all-spice background. Spice comes through on the tongue, as do rich aromas of dried plums and licorice. The conclusion is lengthy and fulfilling.
With the advantage of time in bottle, the 2018 vintage demonstrates what may be anticipated of this lineage. It’s a special occasion wine, delicious on its own or with hearty comfort foods like thick stews and roasts. The ideal sip for a winter wine pleasure.
It includes Rosie, a pink and beautifully dry rosé, Emerald, a zesty citrus-laden Sauvignon blanc, Bright, an easy-sipping, tropical Chardonnay, and Midnight, an exquisite Cabernet Sauvignon that got 93 points and was named to the Prescient Top 10 Cabernet Sauvignon Report for 2021.
Purchase Paserene’s Dark Syrah 2018
The wines are available from the website and selected leading wine retailers. The Elements wines sell for between R125 and R220/bottle; Dark 2018 is priced at R205/bottle.
For information, visit www.paserene.com, call (021) 876 2714 or email info@paserene.co.za. Stay up to date with news from Paserene by following on Facebook and Instagram @paserene.
