A WEST Devon vineyard has tasted success in the UK's premier competition for the industry,

Eastcott Vineyard near Northlew has been celebrating both the success of their 2009 wines in the English and Welsh Wine of the Year 2010 competition, and the start of their 2010 harvest.

'Eastcott Dry White' was awarded a bronze medal and 'Eastcott Dry Rosé' was awarded a silver medal. Richard Waller, co-owner and winemaker said 'This is a superb result coming after our first wine receiving a highly commended in the same competition last year'.

The 2010 harvest got under way earlier this month, with the help of enthusiastic friends and local pickers. The warm weather in June favoured the early ripening varieties and the 'Rondo' and 'Pinot Noir early' crop has come in well. The vineyard also has some late ripening varieties which it expects to be picked around the end of the month.

Richard and Hilary are also looking forward to a happy event, when they launch their first sparkling wine, in November. Hilary said: 'This is really what we have been waiting for ever since we started the business and it's very exciting to be able to launch it in time for Christmas.'

The vineyard and winery remain open Wednesday to Sunday for 'cellar door' sales and guided tours are available by appointment —http://www.eastcottvineyard.co.uk">www.eastcottvineyard.co.uk or 01837 811012.