Why are Devon’s vineyards so great?

Welcome to the first blog of the BRAND NEW Vineyards of Devon website. As the sun shines and the grapes begin to swell across Devon’s vineyards we are taking a look at what exactly makes the people, vines and wines special here in Devon. First of all, how lucky are we to be able to grow vines and make wines here in such a beautiful part of the world. Devon has a rich tapestry of vineyards from the Jurassic coast, around the soaring Dartmoor and Exmoor tors and south into the English Riviera and Tamar Valley (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty). Did you know that Devon is the only county in England to have two coastlines? This means our vines are nestled between two seas bringing a warmer maritime climate and a longer growing season. Our vines seem to love this and reward our vineyard families with bountiful harvests each year. Pair that climate with the protection of the moors and tors and you find the perfect spot for our 30+ Devon vineyards. 

Devon’s Vineyards are particularly special due to the wonderful and wacky people whose vision brought all these vineyards into being. Devon has more smaller (1 hectare or less) and family-run vineyards than any other part of the UK and with that comes an abundance of stories and tales of nurturing vines, making wines and putting Devon’s vineyards well and truly on the map of the English wine scene. As you visit our vineyards you will find these family teams, guiding you through the vines sharing their passion and love of their vineyards and wineries, and receive a glimpse into the hard work and determination required to help each vine shine.

Don’t just take our word for it though. We love what we do and we are no doubt ever so slightly biased when it comes to singing the praises of Devon’s vineyards. Over the years the number of regional, national and even international awards being won by Devon’s Vineyards has been growing and growing. With some top accolades being won by vineyards right across Devon, it’s easy to see that Devon has something special and a vast array of delicious wines to be enjoyed! 

Fancy a visit? Most of Devon’s vineyards are open to visitors to come and enjoy a snippet of vineyard life. You can join vineyard tours, and find out for yourself the stories behind each vineyard or winery. Why not enjoy a wine tasting of some of the region’s many great wines or even find a vineyard with a café or restaurant to sample some locally produced delicious food. The fun doesn’t have to stop there. We even have several vineyards which are home to wedding venues and award-winning vineyard campsites where you can get back to nature with a spot of glamping. Whatever you’re looking for, Devon’s vineyards certainly won’t disappoint. No two vineyards are the same, each offering something interesting and rewarding to the Devon wine scene. You can use this website to find a vineyard that offers exactly what excites you the most and discover even more when you visit them.