We recently released our Nurok 2012 vintage. A beautifully balanced white blend, the Nurok 2012 consists of fragrant Viognier (43%), creamy Chenin Blanc (35%), unique Roussanne (17%) which provides subtle minerality and structure and Grenache Blanc (5%) which adds a liveliness to the wine.

“My wife, Diane Back, whose painting is depicted on the front label of the wine, is descended from the Nurok family who were originally from Lithuania. At the end of the 17th century, Lithuanians were taking on the Catholic faith and built a cathedral in Siaulai in celebration. A heavy bell being transported to the cathedral fell into a frozen river and the locals could not retrieve it. A young boy named Wulf dived into the river, attached a rope to the bell and, with some help, hauled it onto the riverbank. Refusing any reward, Wulf asked instead that the Jews be allowed to return to Siaulai. His wish was granted, and the citizens bestowed on him the name Nurok, meaning diver. From then on, he and his descendants were known by this name, and there was harmony between Christians and Jews. This admirable example of religious tolerance and mutual respect serves as one of the cornerstones of our philosophy here at Fairview,” says Fairview Owner, Charles Back.

Fairview’s Winemaker, Anthony de Jager, explains the intricate production of the unique blend:
“50% of the Chenin Blanc is from our Darling vineyard, and 50% from vineyards in Paarl. Both parcels were wild fermented in barrels. The free running juice of the Viognier was captured in second and third fill French oak barrels and then naturally fermented without settling. The Grenache Blanc was barrel fermented in French oak while the Rousanne was barrel fermented in second and third fill barrels. The wine was blended after 9 months maturation in barrels and allowed to evolve on the lees in the tank before bottling.”

The wine displays a pale yellow-green colour in the glass. On the nose, scents of Jasmine blossom, a hint of melon, pear drops and subtle oakiness can be enjoyed. The fruitiness on the nose carries through on the palate. The wine has a creamy texture and uplifting acidity, which gives good length and mouthfeel. An elegant, well-integrated wine, the Fairview Nurok 2012 is best enjoyed leisurely and lightly chilled at 7° to 9°C, served with lightly cooked fish or creamy pasta with salmon and capers.

“The previous vintage, Nurok 2011, earned 5 stars in the Platter Wine Guide 2013, placed in the Top 100 SA Wines 2013, and achieved 5 Hearts in Neil Pendock’s Winelands Guide 2013. We were delighted to receive the news that the 2012 vintage did not disappoint, receiving an impressive 5-star ratings from the 2014 Platter’s South African Wine Guide on 8th of November 2013. The Platter Guide is the most comprehensive and up-to- date guide to the South African wine industry,” says de Jager.

For more information on Fairview Wines, please contact us on 021 863 2450 or visit www.fairview.co.za. Follow us on Twitter @FairviewWine and Facebook facebook.com/FairviewWine for the latest news and updates.

Cellar door price: Fairview Nurok 2012 – R95
Wine availability: locally – Fairview Tasting Room in Paarl and at www.yuppiechef.com