Wine and cheese have been the perfect match for centuries, and when it comes to Cape Town, South Africa, one of the best places to experience this combination is Fairview Wine and Cheese. Located in the picturesque Paarl Valley, Fairview Wine and Cheese has been a staple in the wine and cheese industry for more than three decades, providing visitors with some of the best artisanal cheeses and wines in the country.
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History
Fairview Wine and Cheese was founded in 1978 by Charles Back, a visionary entrepreneur who saw the potential of the Paarl valley as a wine-making region. He started with only 30 hectares of vineyards and a small herd of goats, but with hard work and dedication, he built a successful business that now spans over 500 hectares of vineyards and more than 800 goats.
Fairview Cheese
Fairview Wine and Cheese is famous for its artisanal cheeses, which are made using traditional methods and milk from their own goats. The cheese range includes more than 20 varieties, each with its own unique flavour and texture. Here are some of the most popular cheeses:
- Brie: Fairview’s Brie is a soft, creamy cheese with a mild flavour. It pairs well with white wines and is perfect for snacking or adding to sandwiches.
- Camembert: Fairview’s Camembert is a rich, buttery cheese with a slightly stronger flavour than Brie. It pairs well with red wines and is perfect for adding to cheese boards.
- Chevin: Fairview’s Chevin is a fresh goat cheese that is tangy and slightly acidic. It pairs well with Sauvignon Blanc and is perfect for salads and pizzas.
- Blue Rock: Fairview’s Blue Rock is a semi-hard blue cheese with a sharp, salty flavour. It pairs well with sweet wines and is perfect for adding to cheese boards.
Fairview Wine
Fairview Wine and Cheese produces a range of award-winning wines, each with its own unique flavour and style. The vineyards are located in the Paarl valley, which has a Mediterranean climate that is perfect for growing grapes. Here are some of the most popular wines:
- Chenin Blanc: Fairview’s Chenin Blanc is a refreshing white wine with notes of tropical fruit and a crisp finish. It pairs well with seafood and salads.
- Shiraz: Fairview’s Shiraz is a full-bodied red wine with flavours of blackberry, spice, and chocolate. It pairs well with grilled meats and hearty stews.
- Viognier: Fairview’s Viognier is a rich, full-bodied white wine with flavours of apricot, honey, and spice. It pairs well with spicy dishes and creamy cheeses.
- Pinotage: Fairview’s Pinotage is a uniquely South African grape variety that produces a medium-bodied red wine with flavours of plum, cherry, and smoke. It pairs well with barbecued meats and spicy dishes.
Food
Fairview Wine and Cheese also offers a range of delicious food options. The Goatshed Restaurant is a popular spot for visitors, serving fresh, locally sourced dishes with a Mediterranean twist. The menu includes everything from wood-fired pizzas to slow-cooked lamb shank, all of which can be paired with Fairview wines.
Visitors can also enjoy a cheese and wine pairing experience, where they can taste some of the best cheeses and wines that Fairview has to offer. The pairing includes five different cheeses and wines, each carefully selected to complement the other and enhance the flavours.
Tours and Tastings
Fairview Wine and Cheese offers a range of tours and tastings, giving visitors the opportunity to learn more about the cheese and wine-making processes. The tours include a guided walk through the vineyards, followed by a visit to the cheese-making facility. Visitors can see the goats being milked and watch as the cheese is made by hand.
After the tour, visitors can participate in a wine tasting, where they can sample some of the award-winning wines that Fairview produces. The tastings are led by knowledgeable staff who can provide insight into the flavours and characteristics of each wine.
For those who want a more in-depth experience, Fairview Wine and Cheese also offers a Cheese Master Class, where visitors can learn about the art of cheese-making and how to pair cheeses with wines. The class includes a tour of the cheese-making facility, a cheese and wine pairing, and a hands-on session where visitors can make their own cheese.
Events
Fairview Wine and Cheese is also a popular venue for events, such as weddings, corporate functions, and private parties. The Goatshed Restaurant can accommodate up to 120 guests, and the picturesque vineyards provide a stunning backdrop for any occasion.
During the summer months, Fairview hosts a series of outdoor concerts, where visitors can enjoy live music while sipping on wine and sampling cheese. The concerts are a popular event, attracting visitors from all over the country.
Sustainability
Fairview Wine and Cheese is committed to sustainability and reducing its impact on the environment. The vineyards are farmed using sustainable practices, such as crop rotation and natural pest control. The goats are fed on a diet of natural forage and are free to roam in large paddocks, which reduces the need for antibiotics and other medications.
The cheese-making facility is also designed with sustainability in mind, using energy-efficient equipment and recycling as much waste as possible. Fairview also supports local communitiesthrough various initiatives, such as providing education and training to farm workers and supporting local charities.
Fairview Wine and Cheese is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves wine and cheese. With its range of artisanal cheeses, award-winning wines, delicious food, and stunning vineyards, it offers a unique and memorable experience for visitors. Whether you are a cheese and wine connoisseur or just looking for a fun day out, Fairview Wine and Cheese is definitely worth a visit.
Website: https://www.fairview.co.za/
Address: Suid-Agter-Paarl Rd, Suider, Paarl, 7646
FAQ
- Q – What does Fairview Wine and Cheese offer?
A – Fairview Wine and Cheese offers a variety of products and experiences. They have a range of artisanal wines and cheeses, a tasting room where you can sample their offerings, a Mediterranean-style restaurant called Goatshed, and a bakery and deli. They also organize events and have a goat farm on-site. - Q – What are the opening hours of Fairview Wine and Cheese?
A – Fairview Wine and Cheese is open from Sunday to Saturday, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. - Q – Can I book tickets in advance for Fairview Wine and Cheese?
A – Yes, you can book tickets in advance for Fairview Wine and Cheese. It is recommended to check their official website for ticketing options and availability. - Q – Can I buy Fairview wines and cheeses online?
A – It is advisable to check Fairview Wine and Cheese’s official website or contact them directly to inquire about online purchasing options for their wines and cheeses. - Q – Is Fairview Wine and Cheese family-friendly?
A – Yes, Fairview Wine and Cheese welcomes families. However, it’s always a good idea to check specific policies and offerings, especially if you plan to bring children.
