Castlewood Vineyard lies on the sunny south facing slopes of the Axe Valley in Devon. This boutique wine estate is known for its small scale premium production and a highly personal approach to viticulture. Established on a historic family farm, the vineyard benefits from a unique microclimate that helps shape its characterful sparkling wines.
What You Can Do
Visitors can join guided tours led by the owner which offer an honest look into the trials and triumphs of English wine making. These walks through the vines conclude with a structured tasting session in the rustic tasting barn. Guests can sample current vintages and learn about the traditional method sparkling wine production process directly from the person who tends the vines.
What They Offer
The estate focuses on sparkling wines made primarily from Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Meunier. While there is no grand hotel on the property, Castlewood offers cozy self catering cottage accommodation nearby on the farm. The vineyard hosts intimate events throughout the year, including an annual summer wine festival that celebrates local food and music in a relaxed outdoor setting.
Activities
The surrounding Axe Valley landscape is ideal for walking and exploring. Guests can take self guided walks through the nearby ancient woodlands or follow trails along the River Axe. The Jurassic Coast is only a short drive away, providing opportunities for coastal hikes and fossil hunting after a morning spent at the vineyard.
Food to Eat
Dining at Castlewood is an informal and local affair. During organized events and tours, food platters feature regional cheeses, charcuterie, and fresh bread sourced from Devon producers. The sparkling wines are paired with these simple platters to highlight how the crisp acidity of the wine cuts through rich local cheeses.
Why Visit
Castlewood Vineyard is worth visiting for its unpretentious atmosphere and dedication to quality. It offers a genuine look at small scale English viticulture without the commercial feel of larger estates.
The personal nature of the tour makes a visit here feel incredibly welcoming and authentic. The tasting barn has a rustic charm that suits the valley perfectly, though the limited opening hours mean you must plan your visit well in advance. Overall, the exceptional quality of the sparkling wine makes the journey into the Devon countryside highly rewarding.