Fairview Caldera 2023 is a Rhône-inspired Coastal Region red blend built around freshness, spice, and a lighter touch than many fuller-bodied Cape reds. With Grenache, Shiraz, Mourvèdre, and Cinsault in the mix, it leans into brightness and aromatic lift rather than sheer weight, making it a particularly appealing option for drinkers who enjoy reds with energy, savory detail, and easy versatility at the table.
In the glass, it shows an opaque, vivid red hue. The nose opens with ripe summer berries, wild fynbos, and cracked pepper, giving the wine a distinctly South African accent within its Rhône frame. On the palate, red cherry and spice lead, supported by delicate oak and a fresh line of acidity that keeps the wine lively and well-defined. Light- to medium-bodied in feel, it finishes dry and lingering, making it especially good with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or charcuterie where its fruit and savory edge can settle naturally into the meal.
Already highly approachable, this is a red blend made for enjoyment in its youth, though its balance and texture should allow it to hold well over the near term.
The wine was crafted from hand-harvested Grenache, Shiraz, Mourvèdre, and Cinsault, with each block fermented separately to preserve site and varietal character. Some parcels included whole bunches to add extra spice and aromatic lift. Fermentation took place in French oak foudres and barrels, followed by 9 months of maturation in a mix of foudres, seasoned barrels, and stainless steel to retain freshness and texture before the final blend was assembled and bottled.
Winemaker: Anthony de Jager
Fairview is a working farm, housing a collection of micro-businesses all sharing in a common goal – to create artisanal and sustainable produce, with a focus on fine wine and cheese. Everything they do is driven by their philosophy of being honest, honoring their heritage and ensuring their ingenuity. Eager to explore a wider range of wines using grapes grown in optimal conditions, Charles Back abandoned the estate wine concept in the 1980s, choosing rather to “go where the terroir is”. Today, they are one of the few farms that proudly own all their own vineyards, with land in Paarl, Darling, Swartland and Stellenbosch.