Fairview (South Africa) SMV 2002
The ‘SMV’ stands for Shiraz, Mourvedre and Viognier, a classic threesome of Rhone grapes, two red and the third white, which make up this blend. Fairview is something of a Rhone specialist, with their ‘Goat’s do Roam’ range that cheekily mimics Cotes du Rhone. This is an altogether more serious wine however, with a soaring nose of raspberry and redcurrants, and a real herbal, almost medicinal streak. That character fades with time in the glass, and a more lush, chocolaty depth begins to broaden out the picture. On the palate this is silky and refined, with plenty more raspberry and a dry, savoury, tugging acidity and spicy structure beneath. It has good length and balance, and a supple, food-friendly quality that gives it an edge of elegance and ‘grown-up’ character. This should also cellar for a few years. Normally £8.99, this is £6.74 until April 25 at Waitrose.
