Fairview Deli + Tasting Room: A Farm-to-Fork Adventure

Imagine spending a day at Fairview Farm, surrounded by climbing goats, joyful pigs, and wines that push the boundaries of flavor. It’s an experience that will captivate your senses and leave you wanting more.

When you step onto Fairview Farm, the sight of their renowned goat tower will surely bring a smile to your face. Perched on top is the billy goat, observing the world with curiosity. It’s a symbol of the farm’s rich history and the joy it has brought to countless visitors, young and old. And of course, let’s not forget their irresistible creamy chevin cheeses that have become a staple on every cheese board.

But there’s a whole world of adventure and discovery waiting for you beyond the tower. Fairview Farm, now in the hands of the third generation, is a place where the farm-to-fork philosophy takes center stage. From their exceptional wines and cheeses to their free-range meats, everything they offer is a testament to their commitment to sustainable farming practices.

As you explore the farm deli, you’ll be delighted to find their brand new plant-based dairy range. It’s a testament to their dedication to catering to diverse dietary needs and ensuring everyone can enjoy the delicious tastes of Fairview. This is a place where experimentation is encouraged, where you can savor the flavors of nature while knowing that every bite supports a farm that cares deeply for the environment.

Embark on a Culinary Journey

When you step foot into the farm deli, you can’t help but be captivated by the abundance of fresh produce. The shelves are lined with an array of breads and croissants, freshly baked using the farm’s own wheat. And the fridges are filled with free-range lamb, boerie, and Red Angus beef, all lovingly raised right here on the farm.

But it doesn’t stop there. The deli also offers an impressive selection of charcuterie made from pigs that lead a truly gourmet life. These fortunate pigs feast on a scrumptious diet that includes whey from the cheese-making process, vegetable waste from the farm restaurant, and even spent grain and cocoa husks from the neighboring Spice Route farm. The result is a range of charcuterie that is truly exceptional, thanks to the talents of the master charcutier, Neil Jewell.

And let’s not forget about the cheese fridge. While it does feature some of the classic cheeses we all know and love, it also showcases a distinctive selection of pre-ripened specialty cheeses made from goats’ and cows’ milk. These limited-edition cheeses can only be found here on the farm, and they are absolutely worth trying. Plus, there’s even a selection of plant-based cheeses for those who prefer a dairy-free option.

But the deli doesn’t just offer meats and cheeses. It also boasts a variety of preserves, jams, olive oils, and free-range eggs straight from the farm. It’s a treasure trove of deliciousness that is sure to satisfy any food lover.

A cut above the rest

Do you love cheese as much as I do? Well, the Fairview team is absolutely obsessed with it! They don’t want anyone to miss out on the cheesy goodness, so they’ve created a new line of plant-based cheeses that are just as delicious and melty as the originals. You won’t even miss the dairy! They’ve got dairy-free versions of mozzarella, cheddar, parmesan, feta, and cream cheese, and so much more.

Indulgent plant-based ice cream

Are you tired of feeling envious while everyone else enjoys creamy, dreamy desserts? Well, Fairview has come to the rescue with their amazing selection of dairy-free ice creams. Not only are they incredibly tasty, but they also come in fancy packaging that will make you feel extra special. Imagine flavors like coffee chocolate swirl, nut brittle, and strawberry cheesecake…yum! And that’s just the beginning of all the frozen delights they have to offer.

The perfect pairings

My love for the Mediterranean shines through in my taste for Rhône varietals. From the cleverly-named Goats do Roam range to the luscious Charles Back Fairview Brut MCC, which features a Rhône twist of grenache and viognier, and even the experimental small-batch Bloemcool wines, where winemaker Anthony de Jager has complete creative freedom. One of our most exciting offerings is the Regional Revival Range, which pays homage to Mediterranean classics. We have our own take on Super Tuscans with the sangiovese-based Homtini, and the Extraño blend, which combines Spanish varieties tempranillo and grenache.

When you step into Fairview’s cool, rustic tasting room made from old farm buildings, you’ll find yourself in a unique environment. The room is divided into four barrel-shaped pods that serve as informal tasting stations. You can sit at the bar counter and enjoy a lively tasting experience that includes six wines paired with delicious cheeses and charcuterie.

If you’re looking for a more serene and in-depth experience, you can book a table upstairs in the Master tasting room. Here, you’ll have a view of the cellars through glass windows as you embark on a leisurely tutored tasting. The Master tasting offers a selection of eight wines curated by the knowledgeable sommeliers. This carefully chosen set of wines includes premium, experimental, single vineyard, and vintage wines. Each wine is accompanied by a cheese pairing, creating a harmonious taste sensation.

Let’s talk about the costs. The Farmers tasting option is available for R70. It includes six wines paired with four cheeses and two kinds of cured meats. For R50, you can enjoy the Standard tasting, which offers six wines paired with six cheeses. If you’re feeling more adventurous and want to indulge in premium wines, the Master tasting is your best choice. At R100, you can savor eight premium wines paired with eight cheeses. Additionally, you’ll be served bread and olive oil to enhance your tasting experience.

Don’t forget to bring a cool bag with you on your visit to Fairview. After an enjoyable wine tasting, you’ll have the opportunity to browse the deli section. Here, you can explore a variety of meats and cheeses that you’ve discovered during your tasting. If you follow a plant-based diet, Fairview also offers a selection of vegan ice creams and cheeses.

If you’re visiting with children, they can also enjoy a tasting experience. Fairview provides a children’s tasting of cheeses, accompanied by either EGA rooibos or lemonade.

Planning your visit? Fairview is open from Monday to Sunday, between 9am and 5pm. To get in touch, you can call 021 863 2450 or email info@fairview.co.za. You’ll find Fairview Wine Farm located on Suid-Agter Paarl Road in Paarl.