The origin of Nurok is one which pays homage to the revered blends of the Old World. Charles Back’s, wife, Diane, whose painting is depicted on the front label, is a descendent of the Nurok family, originally from Lithuania. At the end of the 17th century, Lithuanians were adopting the Catholic faith, and as a result, built a cathedral in celebration. A heavy bell being transported to the cathedral fell into a frozen river. Despite great effort, the locals were unable to retrieve it. A youngster named Wulf bravely dived into the river and attached a rope to the bell which, with the help of onlookers, was hauled onto the riverbank. Refusing any offer of reward, Wulf simply asked that that the ostracized Jewish community be allowed to return to live in the town centre. His appeal was granted. The townsman of that very notable day bestowed on him the name Nurok, meaning diver. His descendants were able to live amidst harmonious tolerance between Christians and Jews. This example of mutual respect serves as one of the anchors of our country and of our philosophy at Fairview today.
Our winemaking team has a particularly special appreciation for this blend. The Chenin Blanc component is young with initial plantings dating back to 2008. For our young winemakers, it is a privilege to admire this vineyard grow, observing each vintage develop further.
Each component brings something unique to the sorting table. “Viognier has been the backbone of the wine since the first vintage. The wine wouldn’t be the same without it,†says team winemaker, Stephanie.
Annette expresses the visibility in site expression within the Viognier and the further accentuation thereof in the smaller batch ferments within barrel. “Viognier can sometimes be the most labour intensive which is perhaps why I feel such a connection with this component. It may very well be a reflection of the time spent bonding with it,†she smiles.
An admirer of Roussanne, Adele expresses, “It’s just unique in every way, the structure and savoury character which it contributes to the overall and complete blendâ€.
Alongside his team of leading ladies, Anthony admits to holding a special place in his heart for Grenache Blanc. “It adds freshness, acidity and minerality to the blend. It is a wonderful variety for our warmer climate and will be an important grape variety in SA in the future,†he says.
The Viognier, Grenache Blanc and Chenin grapes are hand-picked from the Fairview vineyards on the rugged and beautiful granite slopes of Paarl Mountain. The Roussanne, also found on the farm, is planted on terraced, stock-by-paaltjie trained vineyards. Fermentation is let to occur naturally in seasoned barrels with some components left on the skins for several days or fermented in tank for freshness.
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