At Paserene, three wine regions were selected to create the Elements and Paserene ranges, Tulbagh, Elgin and Franschhoek. So, what makes Tulbagh special enough to be included in this curated selection?

Established in 1795, positioned at the north-western corner of the Breede River Valley, Tulbagh is a small town surrounded by arable land with great potential. Originally, much of the land was used for grazing cattle and the vines planted were of low quality, used to make large quantities of sherry styled wines. Over time the land was acknowledged for its potential and great care was taken to bring quality vine clones that would thrive in the area.

Tulbagh is enclosed on three sides by mountains, Obiqua Mountains to the west, Groot Winterhoek Mountain to the north and the Witzenberg Mountains to the east, leaving the south open to cooling winds. The basin floor elevation is about 350m with the surrounding mountain soaring up to 2077m. This lay of the land creates many unique micro-climates which collectively experience a Mediterranean climate with hot days, tempered from the south, and cool nights as air descends from the mountains.

Tulbagh has a variety of soils from decomposed shales on the slopes to the loamy sands of the basin. This variety of soils combined with the complex topography creates some of the most diverse terroirs for winemakers to work with.

Martin Smith, Paserene’s winemaker, selected specific parcels of vines in Tulbagh that capture the potential of the area with the capacity for balanced weight, colour and tannins.


The Cabernet Sauvignon of the Marathon and Midnight are grown in decomposed shale which provides good nutrients and water retention. These vines particularly benefit from the cool southerly winds that temper the summer heat and allow steady ripening for richly developed flavours and long-lasting finishes in the wine. The Union’s Syrah is grown in acrid, scaly soil with a yield of no more than two tons per hectare. This strict limitation of fruit intensifies the use of nutrients to ensure exceptional flavour development.


Whereas the Carignan and Mourvèdre grow more south on loamy soil, producing softer, more fragrant wine. These three varietals are also used in creating the Rosie which capture the bold fruit-forward characteristics of the terroir in rosé wine. These four wines are carefully created as expressions of this magical region.

At Paserene, Martin is also able to bring together a blend of Syrah from all three regions in the Dark, demonstrating how each plays a role in forming a powerful expression of the cultivar.


The Paserene Nest is located in the beautiful setting of Franschhoek overlooking the vineyard and offers a unique opportunity to experience three unique regions. Each sip creates a moment in time in an environment of distinction.