Latitude 50 Degrees 42 Minutes - the Exe Valley lies on an almost identical latitude with the Moselle Valley yet enjoys milder springs, and milder autumns. Steep and thickly wooded to the north as the River Exe runs off Exmoor, by the time it reaches Bickleigh the Valley opens out into a broad river plain.

Here, on steep slopes as the River turns due south in its run to the regional capital, Exeter, is our vineyard, at around 200 feet above sea level. Red Devon sandstone breaks up into shale, the hills on three sides create a natural amphitheatre where light levels are high.

In summer, early morning mists rise up from the riverbed creating a subtropical effect but burn off by midday. Even in peak summer this part of mid-Devon is sleepy and quiet, apart from the sounds of various birds of prey and corks popping in the café-winebar.

A perfect stopping off point on a long journey turning off the motorway, Bickleigh itself is a noted beauty spot with thatched pubs on the riverfront, although the best food and wine is on offer at the vineyard!