I made it my mission during the recent English Wine Week to get out there and visit a few of the amazing vineyards that are less than an hours drive from Exeter. Devon is most definitely a wine region and the country has an abundance to visit.

If you didn’t know already, English wines are knocking spots off other more established wine countries in blind-tasting wine awards left, right and centre and have moved on from their humble beginnings. I have been a fan for years and always try to buy English wine when possible. Ok, the price point is a little higher but honestly, if you have a spare few pounds to spend on something really good, reach for a local wine instead.

I wanted to share with you three vineyards I visited recently. All unique in their own way and offer differing opportunities depending on size and facilities.

Lily Farm Vineyard, Knowle

I shall start with the smallest. Lily Farm Vineyard in Knowle near Budleigh Salterton started as a retirement project for Alan and Faye Pratt and has turned into a thriving vineyard producing exceptional award-winning wines since their first harvest. They offer guided tours and tastings as well as being an idyllic spot to while away a couple of hours over a bottle of their wine whilst overlooking the vines. They have a small selection of cheese and charcuterie boards to nibble on as well as other light refreshments.

The vineyard tour is about an hour long and in that time you will learn how Alan and Faye got into the business of growing grapes. On top of that an understanding about the grape varieties that go into their wines and why they chose the particular grape varietals. The tasting follows in their tasting room where you will sample four still wines and one sparkling. The tour and tasting will cost you £15.00. A steal in my opinion.

Kenton Park Estate

Kenton Park Estate just outside Exeter offer nuofferss tours, tastings and events. It is a much bigger vineyard than Lily Farm but they would still class themselves as a small operation.

When I visited I took part in a wine safari. The safari starts with a guided tour and tasting in and around the vines. A fabulous way to sample the wines made from the vines you stand amongst. Alongside the history of Kenton Park Estate you will learn all about the grape varieties, how they grow and what makes them special.

From the vineyard, lunch is served in one of their beautifully decorated safari huts. A pre-selected 3 course menu which is included in the tour fee. I chose the menfish-based tart followed by beautifully cooked bream with roasted Mediterranean vegetables. A decadent Eaton mess followed.

Part two of the Safari took place in the orchard and herb gardens sampling their cider and gin. This safari lasts the best part of a day and is so much fun. Go with a friend or as a group. They can cater for all sizes of party.

Sandridge Barton

The last vineyard I visited was Sandridge Barton, the home of Sharpham Wine. Sandridge Barton is by far the largest vineyard out of the three with approximately 40 acres of vines producing numerous award winning wines. CEO and head winemaker Duncan Schwab has been with the company since 1992 and has seen the company outgrow its previous lodgings 3 kilometres down the road to where they are now in Stoke Gabriel near Totnes.

The main site hosts its winery which you can tour as well as tasting a few of the most popular wines Make the most of it by staying for supper at Circa. Circa, previously based in Exeter moved on site when the new winery opened its doors to the public in 2022. They offer incredible small plates utilising the local produce to its full from a converted milking parlour. Their ethos is to showcase the best produce from the estate and surrounding area and I have to say they have nailed it. I loved their exciting menu which paired beautifully with the wines from the estate.

The three I have mentioned here are just the tip of the iceberg. I can think of another 10 within a short distance of Exeter so get out there and explore your local, get tasting and supporting.