Paserene Winemaker Dinner Series: Wining + Dining in Franschhoek

Paserene’s elegant Nest tasting lounge, overlooking dam and mountains, hosts the boutique Franschhoek winery’s first series of winemaker’s dinners. Co-owners Ndabe Mareda and winemaker Martin Smith have quickly brought the relatively young label to the attention of the international wine world with characterful wines that share a definable sense of place. These three dinners are a rare opportunity to get to know winemaker and wines in an intimate, unhurried and hospitable setting.

Meet the winemaker

Martin’s 10 years at wineries in the United States, followed by a six-year stint as winemaker for the prestigious Vilafonté in Paarl, is evident in his thorough and detailed approach to winemaking. Paserene holds only eight hectares of vineyards, so most of the grapes used in the 30 000-bottle annual production are bought in from choice parcels in Franschhoek, Elgin and Tulbagh. And he creates some real beauties… from the playful and fresh easy-sipping Elements range, to the meticulously-crafted high-end Paserene range designed for ageing (some of these are available in vintages going back to 2014).

Perfect pairings

Expect a five-course feast created especially to pair with Martin’s choice of exceptional wines. On the menu:

• bread course with beef jus
• chilli dusted squid
• salmon spring roll with tomato chive ponzu and wasabi sauce
• beef fillet serve on mushroom duxelle and potato rosti with green-peppercorn sauce
• chocolate fondant with ice cream

It’s an exciting chance to chat about terroir, sip some splendid vintages, and savour a moment in time.

When Friday, 18 August 2023
Friday, 8 September 2023
Time 6.30pm for 7pm
Cost R900 (five courses with wine pairings)
Contact 021 876 2714, info@paserene.co.za
Where to find it Paserene Farm, R45, Franschhoek
Book through DinePlan