Fairview Cellars Presents the Art of Pairing and More
Tucked into a picturesque corner of Oliver, BC by the Fairview Mountain Golf Club, Fairview Cellars is presenting new gems in its collection of outstanding wines including thoughtful events.
I was fortunate to get a preview and highly encourage you to check out what is new for yourself.
“The Art of Pairing” experience provides a flavour odyssey into food and wine pairing. This 1.5-hour is designed to be educational and fun, perfect for those who appreciate the finer things in life. “The Art of Pairing” is held Saturdays, 10:30 am to 12 noon, July 13, 20, and 27, August 3, 10, 17, 24, and 31.
Our intimate group of six participants was guided through a thoughtfully curated selection of seven wines, each paired with a complimentary dish. It was crafted to be a light lunch and I left feeling satisfied and inspired by the creative combinations.
Because Fairview Cellars believes that great experiences are meant to be shared, they require a minimum of six participants to host this event and allow a maximum of eight to keep the atmosphere cozy and interactive. “Don’t worry if you’re coming solo or with a few friends; this is a wonderful opportunity to meet fellow enthusiasts and bond over your shared love for food and wine,” says Danielle Hutton.
Together with her husband Dermott, Danielle is the owner/operator of the family-run winery, which is committed to sustainable practices. She is the winemaker while Dermott oversees the vineyard management. After an intense mentorship with former owner Bill Eggert, who founded Fairview Cellars in 1993, they purchased it in 2022.
The Art of Pairing
Expert guide Steve Ward led our preview group sharing his insights into the art of pairing. He helped us understand the harmony between flavours and the joy of discovering perfect matches. Whether you are a seasoned connoisseur or a curious beginner, I promise you it will be an enriching and tasty experience.
Steve has a rich background in owning and working in outstanding British Columbia restaurants. His passion for enhancing both wine and culinary experiences through expert combinations was a pleasure to witness firsthand.
For the pilot, Fairview Cellars presented 2021 Chardonnay with Double Cream Brie Cheese with two House-Made Jellies; 2022 Rosé with a Mini Charcuterie Plate; 2021 Pinot Noir with Raw Beetroot, Tapenade-stuffed Roasted Mushroom, Pork Tenderloin with Black Cherry Candy; 2020 Estate Merlot with Pepper Crusted Tuna Loin and Panko Crusted Goat Chevre with Fruit Jelly; duo 2020 The Bear and 2014 The Bear with Vegetable Stack of Eggplant, Roasted Red Pepper, Grilled Zucchini and a Tikka Masala Sauce; 2013 Hailing A Cab with Deconstructed Beef Wellington and a Balsamic Crema Glaze.
While your selection may be seasonally adjusted with different wines and food pairings, I have no doubt it will be equally inspiring. In the session, you are provided with a handy guide of Basic Rules and Ideas.
Get your tickets, $75 per person plus taxes, today and book your spot to sip, savour, and socialize in a relaxed, welcoming environment. https://www.fairviewcellars.ca/events
If you would like to book a private group of between six and eight guests, email Danielle@fairviewcellars.ca, and she will do her best to accommodate you.
Sips at Sunset
Fairview Cellars is offering a musical sunset featuring the tunes of singer-songwriter Ryan McAllister. It begins at 5:30 pm with tickets priced at $15, including taxes and a glass of wine. Seating is first come first served, so arrive early to secure your spot for a memorable sunset experience. Delicious bites from the Law of Attraction food truck will be available for purchase.
The Fabulous Wines
Throughout Bill Eggert’s tenure, the estate garnered acclaim for its commitment to crafting exceptional wines, notably distinguished reds like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. You will find his wines in the best of cellars.
Bill is renowned for his commitment to traditional winemaking techniques and visionary leadership in the realm of viticulture. His influence has left an indelible mark on Fairview Cellars and his leadership has significantly influenced the broader viticultural practices within the Okanagan Valley’s wine industry.
Fans rested easier to see him mentor such enthusiastic and capable individuals as Danielle and Dermont to continue the legacy. As they build on this solid foundation, I am excited to see them finding their own voice and adding exciting new elements.
For example, their 2023 Sauvignon Blanc was introduced the day I did the preview. This is a vibrant blend of 88 per cent Sauvignon Blanc and 12 per Semillon with 40 per cent barrel ferment. I found it to be clear and bright in the glass exuding aromas of tropical fruits and freshly mowed lawn. A harmony of freshness and complexity with flavours of roasted pineapple, green apple, and papaya, it is perfect as a patio sipper or paired with light summer fare.
PS: Bill is still out there influencing the wine industry. Rumour has it he “bought a beautiful property that happens to have a vineyard on it” and renamed it Pinehill Cellars. Those who loved Hidden Chapel Winery are relieved the property is in such great hands.