A NORTHLEW vineyard is proving that Devon can compete on a world stage after its three sparkling wines gained international recognition.

Eastcott Vineyard took a 'commended' with its driest sparkling wine Brut Zero and a bronze with its Brut Rose at the International Wine Challenge and a silver medal at the International Wine and Spirits Competition with Brut 2009.

The couple, who started their business in 2007, have won recognition for their wine and wine tasting events but this is their first international award.

Mrs Waller said: 'English fizz was up against Champagne and wines from all over the world. I think it just shows that here in Devon we can compete with the South East and anywhere else.'

Since planting 6,400 vines and converting an old barn into a modern winery, the couple, who do everything from picking the grapes to sticking labels on bottles, have been opening their doors for tours and tasting events and they will again being doing this during English Wine Week.

'Many people are daunted by wine tasting, thinking they have to be some kind of expert but that is not the case,' added Mrs Waller.

'We welcome people who are enthusiastic and want to learn more.'

Eastcott Vineyard produces three still wines and three sparkling wines which it sells from the site and to some local shops.

Hilary said the English climate was a positive thing as far as wine making was concerned as fruit took longer to mature and hence was more flavoursome.

English strawberries are the best in the world because they develop more slowly and grapes are the same, they improve with age.'

Details of what is happening at Eastcott Vineyards during English Wine Week from May 25 to June 2 may be found at http://www.eastcottvineyard.co.uk">www.eastcottvineyard.co.uk or 01837 811012.