Fairview Cellars is a boutique winery in the Okanagan Valley known for its dedication to producing high-quality, terroir-driven wines. The winery has become a respected name in the Canadian wine industry, particularly for its bold reds. This piece explores the history of Fairview Cellars, its winemaking philosophy, and its impact on the Okanagan Valley.
The Origins of Fairview Cellars
Fairview Cellars, established in 1997, is a boutique winery known for producing some of the South Okanagan’s most bold and flavourful red wines. Situated on 10 acres at the northern tip of the Golden Mile, the winery is now managed by Danielle and Dermott Hutton, who continue the tradition of making wine “from the heart, for the heart.” Their hands-on approach to farming includes manual leaf removal and vine pruning, emphasizing a low-intervention philosophy that allows their vineyard's exceptional fruit to shine.
The Huttons’ commitment to sustainability is evident throughout their vineyard and winemaking practices. They employ drip irrigation for precise water conservation and use a pressure washer in the winery to minimize water usage. Additionally, solar panels power the winery during the summer, highlighting their dedication to renewable energy. Fairview Cellars cultivates various grapes, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Syrah, while sourcing other varietals from neighbouring vineyards, all contributing to their terroir-driven wines.
The Okanagan Valley Terroir
The Okanagan Valley is recognized as one of Canada's premier wine regions, and the Golden Mile Bench, where Fairview Cellars is located, is remarkably esteemed for its unique terroir. This region benefits from long, hot summers and cool nights, which create optimal conditions for growing grapes. The soils on the Golden Mile Bench are a mix of sand, gravel, and clay, providing excellent drainage and contributing to the complex flavours of the wines.
At Fairview Cellars, the importance of terroir cannot be overstated. The vineyard's location on the Golden Mile Bench allows the grapes to fully express the characteristics of the land, resulting in wines that are rich, balanced, and full of depth. Eggert's approach to vineyard management is grounded in a respect for the natural environment, with practices designed to enhance the health of the soil and the vines.
Wines from Fairview Cellars
Fairview Cellars offers an impressive selection of wines that showcase the unique terroir of the Golden Mile Bench. Their 2023 Sauvignon Blanc is a bright blend of 88% Sauvignon Blanc and 12% Semillon, with aromas of guava and passionfruit and a palate featuring roasted pineapple and green apple. Another standout is the 2021 Chardonnay, which offers notes of toffee apple, lemon curd, and a full-bodied profile that appeals to red wine enthusiasts.
For those who enjoy red wines, Fairview Cellars presents the 2021 M2, a wealthy 50-50 blend of Merlot from the estate and Black Sage Bench, featuring flavours of dark cherry jam and black currant. The 2021 Bucket O Blood, a blend of Cabernet Franc and Syrah is bold and intense with notes of red plum, blueberry, and black pepper, making it a robust choice for those seeking a powerful wine with a strong finish. Each wine reflects Fairview Cellars’ dedication to crafting expressive, terroir-driven wines that stand the test of time.
The Fairview Cellars Experience
Fairview Cellars offers a personalized wine-tasting experience with 45-minute sessions that start every 10 minutes. Guests can choose between a $15 or a premium $20 tasting, including a complimentary branded Riedel wine glass. Each session can accommodate up to six guests, and reservations can be modified at any time before the scheduled appointment through the confirmation notice. This intimate setting allows visitors to explore the rich flavours of Fairview Cellars’ wines in a relaxed and scenic environment.
Fairview Cellars hosts various engaging events that allow visitors to immerse themselves in wine and food. One of the highlights is “The Art of Pairing,” a guided food and wine experience held every Saturday. This 1.5-hour event takes participants on a culinary journey, pairing seven carefully selected wines with complementary dishes. The intimate setting, with a maximum of eight guests, ensures a cozy and interactive experience where participants can learn the intricacies of pairing food with wine while enjoying a light lunch.
In addition to regular events, Fairview Cellars occasionally hosts special dinners, such as the Wine Dinner with Ward’s Wine Country Kitchen and the Wine Dinner with Black Sage Butcher, which provides an elevated dining experience. These events are perfect for those looking to deepen their appreciation for fine wines and gourmet cuisine, all set against the backdrop of the beautiful Golden Mile Bench. Each event is thoughtfully curated to offer wine enthusiasts and food lovers a memorable and enriching experience.
Conclusion
Fairview Cellars is a winery that embodies the values of tradition, quality, and sustainability. From its vast roots in the Okanagan Valley to its commitment to producing terroir-driven wines, Fairview Cellars offers a unique experience for wine lovers. Fairview Cellars connects to the land and the passion behind every bottle.
