Next in Food For Mzansi’s Faces of Winter campaign, Natasha Williams, founder of Lelie van Saron Wines, offers something for every wine lover. For minimal intervention enthusiasts, her Syrah is ideal, while those seeking boundary-pushing wines can explore her Jade Red.
In the cool, ocean-kissed valley of Hemel-en-Aarde in the Western Cape, Natasha Williams has made it her life’s mission to craft wines with character, clarity, and, every now and then, a playful twist.
Williams is the mastermind and founder behind Lelie van Saron Wines, a wine brand which she says is a heartfelt reflection of her roots and her winemaking philosophy.
“The name pays tribute to the town where I grew up. Lelie van Saron is an Afrikaans phrase that translates to ‘Lily of the Valley.’ The name represents the elegance and purity I strive to achieve in my wines,” Williams says.
In a casual sit-down with Food For Mzansi, Williams delves into the origins of her two signature wines and what differentiates them in the competitive winemaking landscape.
Wine in its purest form
The Lelie van Saron Syrah is sourced from a unique property in Hemel-en-Aarde known for its cool climate and proximity to the Atlantic Ocean.
“This vineyard is about four kilometres from the Atlantic Ocean and just under 200 metres above sea level. The cool climate allows for a longer ripening period, resulting in wines that are more developed, complex, and have a lower alcohol level,” she explains.
Williams’ approach to crafting the Lelie van Saron Syrah is meticulous and thoughtful.
“I call it a clone selection and a barrel selection. I studied the vineyard for a year before producing the first vintage in 2018. It’s a small production wine made from a single vineyard, offering a rare opportunity to see a cool climate Syrah in its purest form,” she says.
The wine showcases Williams’ philosophy of minimal intervention.
“I use old oak to let the terroir shine. When you smell the wine, you get more of a fruit expression and less of the oak notes. It’s about showcasing the clarity and purity of the fruit,” she explains.
She describes the Lelie van Saron Syrah as having “black currants, darker fruit notes, cherry currents, and soft pepper notes with a touch of leather and tobacco at the back.”
The wine’s fresh entry and salivating acidity make it versatile for food pairings. “In winter, it pairs beautifully with a tomato braise or a stew. Even a light lunch like pizza works well,” she says.
The impressive Jade range
The Jade range, introduced in 2021, embodies her experimental spirit and desire to push boundaries. “The Jade range allows me to experiment with different vineyards and wine styles. It’s about having fun and showcasing a bit more of my playful side.”
Meanwhile, her Jade Red is a blend of Syrah and Petit Syrah, offering a unique and harmonious combination of flavours.
“The Jade Red 2022 is a blend of Syrah from the Lelie van Saron vineyard in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley and Petit Syrah from the same region. The Syrah provides clarity and fruit, while the Petit Syrah adds structure and spice,” she explains.
Her decision to use Petit Syrah was driven by curiosity and opportunity.
“I passed a Petit Syrah vineyard every second week when visiting other vineyards. The grapes looked in prime condition, and I was intrigued by the idea of something different growing in the area. So, I decided to vinify it separately and blend it with the Syrah,” she explains.
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The Jade Red 2022 features “purple fruit notes, mulberries, fresh plums, and prunes. The spice notes are different from the Lelie van Saron Syrah, with more fennel and liquorice. The palate is zesty and vibrant, making it versatile for various occasions,” she explains.
Williams suggests enjoying the Jade Red with a pasta dish. It is also a wine that you can enjoy in both winter and summer, she says.
Thinking about the future, Williams says she has grand aspirations for her wine company and dreams of having a permanent home for her wines. Right now, she sources grapes from farmers.
“But ultimately, I want a place where I can cultivate my own grapes and name it the home of Lelie van Saron.”
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