Wines of Fairview: Big, Bold, Elegant

Bill Eggert runs a winery in Oliver, BC that is the definition of a successful, small operation.

Fairview Cellars grows and vints everything on the property. Bill handles it all from vineyard work to sales. And he's doing something right as Fairview wines are approaching cult status. This year's releases ( all red) will probably sell out sometime in the summer - leaving his fans clamoring for more.

The winery and vineyards are worth a visit. Located just outside Oliver on the west side of the valley, the winery could have been called Fairway being adjacent to the Fairview golf course

Getting hold of Fairview cellar wine is straightforward. Almost everything is sold through the cellar door. You'll have to contact Bill and have it shipped or drop in to the winery and pick it up yourself.

The core of the Fairview stable are the Bordeaux varieties. Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc and blends of the same make up the bulk of the offerings. Current releases all show great character and definition. I tasted several this weekend and was particularly impressed with his work on the 2001 Cabernet Franc. The nose has that hint of pencil shavings that sets it apart from Cabernet Sauvignon. Rich berry notes give way to a palate loaded with dried cherry, plum and currant. The wine has good weight and an extended finish. Tannins and acid are in balance and assertive enough to promise a stable cellaring. I'd give it a 15.5 / 20 and a BUY recommendation. Chances are the rating on this wine will go up after a little time lying around in the dark.
I was also treated to several Merlot/Cab blends and a full-on Meritage. More about those in later posts.

You can reach Bill at Fairview by email at beggert@img.net or call at 250 - 498 - 2211