Hello to all our readers and welcome back to our blog. We hope you are all keeping well. Did you get a chance to read last week’s blog all about Okehampton? There is so much to do and see and is a great place to visit while on holiday in Devon. If you did not get a chance to read it click here to read. Today, however, we are delving into the wonderful vineyard at Dalwood in East Devon.
Where it all began
The vineyard began back in 2009 after a group of ‘Dalwood Villagers’ decided to make it happen. The idea began around 12 years ago but like many ideas, it is often put to the back burner for a little while but was once again brought back up over a couple of pints and a game of skittles at their local pub. Between themselves, they said ‘we can do that’, and that is just what they did! Their first decision for the vineyard was to plant an acre to Seyyal Blanc.
What they plant
After the initial year, the group went on to plant 3 more varieties giving them a total of 3 acres. The 3 varieties included Solaris, Madeleine Angevine, and Pinot Noir. They chose the three varieties based on their ability to cope with the unpredictable West Country climate, their reliable crop and the ability to be blended. The vineyard is on a gentle, South-West facing hill and over the 3 acres, there are around 3,000 vines planted.
We asked Mike who runs the Vineyard what was his favourite wine and he told us that his current favourite is the 2019, but that he does love the 2016 Brut, a good one for Christmas celebrations too!
Mike said he was most excited about what will be their 2020 wines. Mike told us that this year they have the best quality grapes they have ever grown. They are hugely excited for the still and sparkling wine that they will produce from the grapes.
The End Product
Over at the Dalwood Vineyard website you can purchase their wine online which includes Mike’s favourite 2019 still white and a 2017 Brut. They also sell some lovely champagne bottle stoppers and a great hamper style gift of sparkling wine, a still white, a bottle stopper and candle.
Go and Visit
As well as being able to purchase their amazing wines online you can go and see the place where it is all made yourself with their wine tours and tasting sessions. You will be guided around the picturesque vineyard hearing their story and learning about the different varieties of grapes they have planted. They will provide you with a taster session where they will talk you through the taste. They can also put on a lunch for you on request or take you down to the local pub for a fantastic local lunch. For further information on their wine tours click here.
Further Information
Well, that does look like a wonderful trip out, we would sure love to try their wine. We hope you have enjoyed today’s blog and perhaps have found something new you would like to experience while in East Devon. If you are thinking about booking a holiday in East Devon and need to find some quality accommodation click here and browse our wonderful range of self-catering and bed and breakfast options.