The annual release of the Platter’s South African Wine Guide—the nation’s most trusted benchmark of wine quality—is always a defining moment for the local industry. For Fairview, a winery with decades of excellence behind it, this year’s results mark one of its most impressive achievements yet. The estate proudly celebrates receiving a pinnacle Wine of the Year award, six 5-Star ratings, and ten 4.5-Star ratings in the 2026 edition.
Now in its 46th year, Platter’s assessed more than 8,000 wines from over 900 producers. Of these, 316 wines, brandies, and husk spirits earned the coveted 5-Star rating—equivalent to 95 points or higher on the international 100-point scale. Only the highest-rated wines in each category receive the prestigious Wine of the Year accolade.
Fairview’s Six 5-Star Wines and Wine of the Year
La Beryl Blanc 2024 – Wine of the Year (Straw Wine Category)
Fairview OVP Steen 2024
Cyril Back 2022
Lanner Hill Syrah 2022
Beacon Shiraz 2022
Caldera 2023
La Beryl Blanc 2024: Wine of the Year – Straw Wine Category
This award holds deep emotional resonance for proprietor Charles Back.
“La Beryl Blanc is named after my late mother, Beryl Back, a woman whose influence at Fairview still runs deep. For her wine to be singled out as Wine of the Year in its category is something truly special. A beautifully made straw wine, and a fitting tribute.”
Fairview’s award-winning wines embody a story of heritage, innovation, and tireless pursuit of excellence. Spanning vineyards from Paarl Mountain to Darling, the Swartland, and Piekenierskloof, the estate’s 2026 5-Star wines reflect the remarkable diversity of the Cape’s terroir—few producers map the region with such depth and character.
Fairview’s 4.5-Star Achievers
Just shy of the ultimate 5-Star rating, ten Fairview wines earned outstanding 4.5-Star acclaim:
- Grenache Blanc 2024
- Petite Sirah 2022
- Beryl Back 2024
- Eenzaamheid Shiraz 2022
- Primo Pinotage 2023
- Stok by Paaltjie Grenache Noir 2023
- Altesse 2024
- Charles Back Fairview Brut 2022
- Extraño 2022
- Homtini 2022
Wine lovers can purchase Fairview’s Platter Guide 2026 achievers online or at the cellar door via the Fairview Marketplace:
https://fairviewmarketplace.co.za/category/platter-guide-2026
A Message from Charles Back
“Fifty years after bottling our first wines under the Fairview label, it’s deeply gratifying to see our work recognised across so many styles, regions, and philosophies. From Rhône-style reds to Cape Chenin, from heritage blocks to modern Mediterranean blends, we remain committed to crafting wines that express place, purpose, and personality.
This is a proud moment for our entire team—from the vineyard teams who know each block like family, to our cellar team under Anthony de Jager and Annette van Zyl, whose dedication, curiosity, and precision continue to raise the Fairview flag higher each year. My heartfelt congratulations and sincere thanks to you all. Here’s to another year of exceptional winemaking, and to everyone who shares a Fairview bottle at their table.”
— Charles Back
Visit Fairview for a World-Class Experience
Nestled against the slopes of Paarl Mountain with sweeping views stretching toward Table Mountain, Fairview remains one of the Cape Winelands’ most beloved destinations. Celebrated internationally for its wine, cheese, and artisanal produce, the farm is home to a family of micro-businesses connected by a passion for craftsmanship and sustainable farming.
Visitors can enjoy:
Wine & Cheese Tastings
Curated experiences offered daily in the Fairview Tasting Room.
The Fairview Deli
Stocked with handcrafted foods, baked goods, and local favourites.
Lunch at the Goatshed Restaurant
A farm-style eatery featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients.
And, of course, no visit is complete without greeting Fairview’s iconic goats at the Goat Tower—a photo opportunity loved by visitors of all ages.
Fairview Wine and Cheese
Suid-Agter Paarl Road, Suider-Paarl, 7646
Tel: 021 863 2450
Email: info@fairview.co.za
Website & Socials:
https://www.fairview.co.za/
Facebook: FairviewWineandCheese
Instagram: @fairviewwineandcheese
X (Twitter): @FairviewWine
TikTok: @fairviewwineandcheese
Threads: @fairviewwineandcheese
