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Much to many people’s surprise, Devon is home to a range of eloquent vineyards. From fruity sparkling wines to distinctive reds, Devon has something for everyone’s taste.

It is believed winemaking in England was first introduced by the Romans almost 2000 years ago. Sadly, with the introduction of European wines in the late 19th century, English wine grew out of favour. Fortunately, the mid 20th century saw a resurrection of the English winemaking industry, with many pioneers of the industry establishing vineyards.

A trip to one of Devon’s vineyards certainly won’t disappoint. In this post, we explore eight vineyards you’ll want to visit on your next visit to Devon.


1. Lily Farm Vineyard – East Devon

The Story: This small family run vineyard was established in 2005 by Alan and Faye Pratt, with the help of their two sons. Situated on sandy slopes, the vines are in an ideal south-west facing position and in 2007, the vineyard enjoyed a UK record-breaking harvest of Rondo grapes.

Connoisseurs Recommendation: Lily Farm Rosé (Rondo)

Visitor Information:

  • Address: Lily Farm Vineyard, Dalditch Lane, Knowle, Budleigh Salterton, Devon, EX9 7AH
  • Vineyard tours: www.lilyfarmvineyard.com/gifts/
  • Contact: 01395 442591; info@lilyfarmvineyard.com

2. Pebblebed Vineyard – Exeter

The Story: Pebblebed Vineyard started in 1999 when a group of local farmers came together to plant the first half acre of grape vines. Now at an impressive 20 acres, Pebbled Vineyard aim to produce their wines using natural and organic methods wherever possible. The result is a selection of beautifully balanced wines.

Connoisseurs Recommendation: Pebblebed Red (Pinot Noir Precoce and Rondo)

Visitor Information:


3. Old Walls Vineyard – Teignbridge

The Story: The Old Walls vineyard is believed to be the site of Roman winemaking over 2000 years ago. The vineyard’s name was inspired by the close proximity of the “Bishop’s Place”, which was built in the 13th century, as ruins of its walls can be seen near the vineyard. For the inspiring connoisseurs amongst us, you may want to enjoy wine from your own grapes with the “Vine Rental Experience”.

Connoisseurs Recommendation: Palace Red (Regent, Rondo and Dunkelfelder)

Visitor Information: 

  • Address: Old Walls Vineyard, Old Walls Road, Bishopsteignton, TQ14 9PQ
  • Vineyard tours: www.oldwallsvineyard.co.uk
  • Contact: 01626 770877; enquiries@oldwallsvineyard.co.uk

4. Eastcott Vineyard – West Devon

The Story: This small family-run vineyard specialises in producing sparkling wines using the traditional bottle-fermentation method. Since purchasing the 16th-century farm in 2007, the vineyard has gone from strength to strength. Visiting this small vineyard would be delightful for any wine lover as the farm plays a central role in the whole process, from growing the grapes to selling the wine in their onsite shop.

Connoisseurs Recommendation: Classic Cuvée (blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir Précoce and Pinot Meunier)

Visitor Information:

  • Address: Lower Eastcott Farm, Northlew, Okehampton, EX20 3PT
  • Vineyard tours: www.eastcottvineyard.co.uk/visit
  • Contact:  01837 811012; info@eastcottvineyard.co.uk

5. Yearlstone Vineyard – Mid Devon

The Story: The vineyard was founded in 1976 by Gillian Pearkes, a pioneer in English winemaking who had collected wine varieties from all over the world. After Gillian’s passing, Roger and Juliet White purchased the vineyard in 1994 and built a winery, shop and cafe on the site.

Connoisseurs Recommendation: Yearlstone Number 5 (Siegerrebe)

Visitor Information:

  • Address: Yearlstone Vineyard, Bickleigh, Devon, EX16 8RL
  • Vineyard tours: www.yearlstone.co.uk/tours
  • Contact: 01884 855726; info@yearlstone.co.uk

6. Quance Wines – North Devon

The Story: Established in 2013, the wine is produced to the founder’s high standards and expertise. This family run vineyard produces a variety of fine wines, ranging from dry whites to light and fruity dry red wines. Their ethos is to break the barriers surrounding wines, making it more accessible to a wide range of wine lovers.

Connoisseurs Recommendation: Verteuia (Chardonnay and Rondo)

Visitor Information:

  • Address: Summermoor Vineyard, Hearson, Swimbridge, North Devon, England, EX32 0QH
  • Vineyard tours: By request – www.quancewines.com/contact
  • Contact: 07516 377 944

7. Alder Vineyard – West Devon

The Story: Alder Vineyard is owned and run by three generations of the Westlake family. Before establishing the vineyard in 2009, the Westlakes lived in Alder for over 100 years. They currently produce wines from two variety of grapes, both Madeleine Angevine and Rondo.

Connoisseurs Recommendation: Rondo

Visitor Information:

  • Address: Alder Vineyard, Lewdown, Okehampton, Devon, EX20 4PJ
  • Vineyard tours: www.aldervineyard.uk/visit-us
  • Contact: 07813 752 805; aldervineyard@outlook.com

 

Feeling inspired to visit Devon and some of its finest vineyards? Check out our range of holiday cottages in Devon here.

 

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