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ANTHONY DE JAGER, WINEMAKER<br />
AT FAIRVIEW, SPENDING TIME IN<br />
THE VINEYARDS<br />
Much like Shiraz, Grenache is a great attribute to the South African winelands -<br />
drought-resistant with a pleasant alcohol sweetness that adds length and lush red<br />
fruit. As in the Rhône, Syrah often provides structure and complexity, while Mourvèdre,<br />
despite its proneness to reductivity, adds a savoury gloss to balance the<br />
opulence of Shiraz and Grenache. Cinsaut’s big berries contribute a fleshy mid-palate<br />
for many Rhône-inspired blends, offering the ensemble a floral quality and<br />
rich texture. Turning to white wines, South Africa flaunts its ability to work with<br />
Marsanne, characterized by delightful pear and quince tones, while Roussanne, on<br />
the other hand, leans more toward stone fruit flavours, adding a creamy complexity<br />
to blends. And don’t forget Viognier’s floral touch!<br />
THE FAIRVIEW G.O.A.T. -<br />
GRACIOUS, ORIGINAL, ADVENTUROUS, TENACIOUS<br />
In exploring the world of Rhône-style wines in South Africa, we find a convergence<br />
of terroirs, winemaking prowess, and an authentic expression of the land that finds<br />
its way to infamous wine labels.<br />
The inception of Fairview’s tongue-in-cheek wine range, “Goats Do Roam,” was<br />
nothing short of audacious. Unwelcomed at first, perhaps for apparent reasons, but<br />
these witty labels of Fairview helped the nation carve a distinct space for itself on the<br />
global wine stage. Fairview is due to celebrate its 50th anniversary since bottling its<br />
first wine in 1974–a milestone marked by Shiraz.<br />
46 WINTER 2023 • GILBERT & GAILLARD - THE FRENCH EXPERTS ON WINE