Introducing the Fairview Darling Sauvignon Blanc 2024: A Sip of Sunshine from Darling’s Atlantic-Kissed Vineyards

Spring has officially arrived, and as we eagerly await the warmth and vibrance of summer, Fairview introduces a new vintage that perfectly encapsulates the season’s spirit: the Fairview Darling Sauvignon Blanc 2024. This latest addition is a wine lover’s dream—zesty, textured, and bursting with vibrant flavors. As refreshing as the Atlantic breeze sweeping across Fairview’s Darling vineyards, it’s an ideal way to enjoy the flavors of summer.

A Vintage that Reflects Terroir

The 2024 Fairview Darling Sauvignon Blanc isn’t just another bottle on the shelf.

“one of our most expressive Sauvignon Blancs to date.”

It’s, as owner Charles Back describes,

He credits Darling’s unique coastal climate and rich soil composition, which provide the ideal terroir for cultivating Sauvignon Blanc grapes with exceptional finesse and purity. A new label with a navy-blue band proudly displaying the Wine of Origin Darling tag now accompanies this wine, showcasing Fairview’s pride in its coastal roots.

The Story of the Vineyard: Where Ocean and Soil Unite

Situated on the coastal hills of Darling, the Fairview vineyard benefits from both the cooling Atlantic winds and the unique red, decomposed granite soils. This terroir, rich in moisture retention and drainage, gives the grapes a distinctive minerality and salinity. The daily temperature shifts and long growing season enable the grapes to reach full ripeness while preserving their acidity and aromatic complexity.

“On the coastal hills of Darling, where the dusty roads wind through our vineyards, the Atlantic breeze whispers secrets to the vines, coaxing forth the richness of the earth in every cluster.”

Anthony de Jager, Fairview’s Cellarmaster, describes it poetically:

These words capture the quiet, rugged beauty of Darling—a beauty that resonates in every bottle.

Winemaking: From Vineyard to Cellar

With an eye on quality, Fairview’s winemaking team meticulously shepherds the grapes from harvest to bottling. Early morning harvesting captures the grapes at their freshest, and whole berries are pressed to preserve their vibrant, fruity character. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks, with temperatures carefully controlled to enhance the tropical aromas. Finally, a two-month rest on the lees adds a luxurious mouthfeel and enhances the aromatics, producing a Sauvignon Blanc with depth and elegance.

Tasting Notes: Sunshine in a Glass

Pour a glass of this Sauvignon Blanc, and you’ll notice its star-bright straw hue with touches of lime and green. Its aroma unfolds with intense notes of fig, granadilla, lemon, lime, and ruby grapefruit, evoking images of sun-drenched summer days. On the palate, expect a lively array of tropical fruit, balanced by zesty acidity and a lingering, fresh saline finish—a signature of the Darling region’s maritime influence.

Perfect Pairings: Summertime Fare

This Sauvignon Blanc is a versatile companion to fresh, light summer dishes. Enjoy it as an apéritif or pair it with seasonal salads, seafood, and cheeses. Its crisp acidity complements the saltiness of West Coast oysters, mussels, and grilled yellowtail. For cheese lovers, try it with Fairview’s award-winning Salada Blanc, a creamy, tangy feta crowned Best Danish-Style Feta at the 2024 SA Dairy Awards. It’s also a delightful match for soft cheeses like goat’s cheese and Fairview’s Chevin or Crottin.

SJ Nel, Head Chef at Fairview’s Goatshed Restaurant, suggests pairing it with a Smoked Salmon Salad with Fairview Salada Blanc Cheese. This dish, a medley of flavors, textures, and colors, is a celebration of summer and will be featured as a special at Goatshed, complete with a complimentary glass of Darling Sauvignon Blanc.

A Destination Beyond Wine

Fairview is more than a winery; it’s a destination for those who appreciate artisanal quality, innovation, and sustainability. Nestled on the slopes of Paarl Mountain, Fairview offers a variety of experiences, from wine and cheese tastings to freshly baked goods and farm-raised meat. Visitors can explore the charming Goat Tower, meet Fairview’s famous goats, and browse the Deli, stocked with artisanal cheeses, preserves, and more.

As you prepare for summer gatherings, picnics, and lazy afternoons, bring along a taste of the Darling sunshine. The Fairview Darling Sauvignon Blanc 2024 is now available at Fairview’s cellar door and online for R110 per bottle at Fairview’s marketplace.