23 Jun South African Cheese and Wine – Best Pairings and Places to Visit
Discover the Magic of South African Cheese and Wine
There’s something magical about the Cape Winelands. Sun-drenched valleys, rolling vineyards, and the unmistakable presence of handcrafted cheese. While South Africa’s reputation for award-winning wines is well established, its thriving artisanal cheese scene, especially goat milk cheese, is what sets the region apart. And nowhere is this harmony of flavour more celebrated than at Fairview in Paarl, where tradition, terroir, and a few mischievous goats come together to offer one of the most memorable experiences in the South African Cheese and Wine landscape.
South African Cheese and Wine Destinations
If you’re searching for a “cheese farm near me” or dreaming of a weekend of cheese tasting in Cape Town or Stellenbosch, there’s one destination that stands out: Fairview.
Founded by Charles Back, Fairview has long been a pioneer of both wine and cheese production. The Fairview Cheesery began in 1980 with just two Saanen goats and a bold vision: to produce world-class goat’s milk cheese in South Africa. Today, the farm is home to over 900 goats, and the famed Goat Tower has become a beloved symbol of Fairview’s playful spirit and serious dedication to quality.
Visitors can experience a fully immersive tasting that includes handcrafted cheeses, from creamy Brie to tangy chèvre, paired with Fairview’s acclaimed wines. With a broad range of goat and cow milk cheeses available, it’s no surprise that Fairview remains a cornerstone of South African Cheese & Wine offerings in the Cape.
Book a Wine & Cheese Tasting
Explore the Fairview Cheese Range
Cheese & Wine Pairing 101
Pairing cheese and wine can feel daunting, but Fairview makes it easy and delicious. Here are some tips and pairings to guide your tasting and deepen your understanding of South African Cheese and Wine:
Goat’s Milk Traditional Chevin & Chenin Blanc:
The citrusy zing of Fairview’s Chevin pairs beautifully with a crisp Chenin Blanc. The wine’s natural acidity cuts through the richness of the cheese, enhancing both.
Traditional Camembert & Sauvignon Blanc:
The creamy texture and mild mushroomy rind of Camembert finds its perfect match in a zesty Sauvignon Blanc, balancing the cheese’s depth with refreshing lift.
Roydon Camembert & Grenache Noir:
For a more complex red pairing, try a Grenache Noir with Fairview’s Roydon, a goats’ and cows’ milk Camembert that brings soft spice and umami notes.
White Rock with Cranberry & Rose Quartz Rosé:
This sweet-savoury cheese, speckled with cranberries, pairs wonderfully with Fairview’s Rose Quartz, daisy fresh dry rosé. The fruitiness of the wine mirrors the berry bursts in the cheese.
Honey Chevin & Viognier:
Fairview’s Viognier offers floral, stone-fruit aromas that elevate the zesty character of Honey Chevin, an unexpected yet delightful pairing.
These delicious examples show how South African Cheese and Wine can be paired for any palate or occasion. All of these combinations (and more) are available on the Fairview Marketplace.
Planning Your South African Cheese and Wine Day Trip
Whether you’re coming from Cape Town or Stellenbosch, Fairview is an easy and rewarding day trip. Here’s what you need to know to plan your South African Cheese and Wine outing:
Location:
Fairview Wine and Cheese Farm, Suider-Paarl , just under an hour’s drive from Cape Town.
Activities:
Wine and cheese tasting, farm-to-table dining at the Goatshed Restaurant, and family-friendly fun at the Goat Tower and gardens.
Kid-Friendliness:
Children love the goats, and the estate has ample space to explore. The Goatshed offers a children’s menu, making it ideal for families.
Time Needed:
Allow at least 2–3 hours for a tasting and relaxed lunch, or make a full day of it with a visit to nearby estates in Paarl or the Spice Route Destination next door.
Route Tips:
Take the N1 from Cape Town and enjoy scenic detours through Stellenbosch or Franschhoek en route.
Conclusion: Your Ultimate Cheese and Wine Escape
If you’re craving the perfect blend of flavour, farm life, and fine wine, Fairview is your go-to destination. With decades of cheesemaking heritage, a trailblazing spirit, and a deep love of the land, it’s more than just a wine estate. Fairview is a Cape Winelands institution. Whether you’re a connoisseur or simply curious, there’s no better place to experience South African Cheese and Wine than Fairview.