Sharpham Wine and Devon Distillery: A Legacy of Quality and Sustainability
Nestled in the Devon countryside, Sharpham Wine, now part of Sandridge Barton, has a rich history that spans generations. Founded by the grandfather of Cosmo Caddy, the founder of Devon Distillery, Sharpham has been producing exceptional wines for decades. This deep family connection, combined with a shared commitment to quality and sustainability, makes Sharpham an integral part of the Dappa story.
Today, Sharpham Wine continues to produce high-quality wines under the Sandridge Barton name, and Devon Distillery proudly upcycles the grape skins from Sharpham’s red wine production to create Dappa, our award-winning grape-marc spirit.
Sharpham Wine: A Devonshire Tradition
Established over 40 years ago, Sharpham Wine is renowned for producing wines that express the unique terroir of Devon’s mild, coastal climate. Sharpham’s commitment to sustainable farming and minimal intervention winemaking has earned it a reputation as one of England’s finest vineyards.
The vineyard’s focus on producing high-quality, cold-climate wines aligns perfectly with Devon Distillery’s values. In particular, Sharpham’s red wine production provides the essential grape skins that form the foundation of Dappa.
The Grape Varieties That Shape Dappa’s Unique Flavour
Sharpham Wine’s red grape varieties, including Pinot Noir and Dornfelder, are cultivated with great care to produce wines of distinction. These grape varieties, known for their delicate flavours and complex aromas, also contribute to the unique character of Dappa.
Once the grapes are pressed for wine, the remaining grape skins (or pomace) are sent to Devon Distillery, where they are upcycled to create Dappa. The skins are rich in flavour, carrying the essence of the grapes and the terroir of Devon, giving Dappa its distinctive, smooth flavour with notes of dark fruit and a subtle hint of spice.
A Legacy of Sustainability: From Vineyard to Distillery
The partnership between Sharpham Wine and Devon Distillery is built on a shared commitment to sustainability. By upcycling the grape skins from Sharpham’s red wine production, Devon Distillery is able to create a high-quality spirit that reduces waste and reflects the values of both producers.
At Devon Distillery, we use traditional steam distillation techniques to preserve the rich flavours of the grape skins. The result is Dappa, a smooth, complex spirit that embodies both the legacy of Sharpham Wine and the innovation of Devon Distillery.
A Family Connection: Sharpham Wine and Devon Distillery
The history of Sharpham Wine is intertwined with that of Devon Distillery. Cosmo Caddy’s grandfather founded Sharpham, and the vineyard remains an important part of the family legacy. Although Sharpham Wine now operates under the Sandridge Barton name, the close relationship between the two businesses continues to thrive.
Located close to Sandridge Barton, Devon Distillery maintains a strong friendship and partnership with the vineyard. This family connection adds a layer of significance to the collaboration, with both companies sharing a deep-rooted passion for craftsmanship and sustainability.
Shared Values: Quality and Craftsmanship
Both Sharpham Wine and Devon Distillery are committed to producing high-quality, small-batch products that reflect the best of what Devon has to offer. For Sharpham, this means producing wines that express the unique character of the region. For Devon Distillery, it means crafting Dappa with the same attention to detail and dedication to excellence.
By upcycling the grape skins from Sharpham’s red wine production, Devon Distillery is able to create a spirit that is not only delicious but also sustainable. This partnership ensures that both the wine and the spirit are crafted with the utmost care, reflecting the shared values of quality, sustainability, and tradition.
Conclusion: Sharpham and Devon Distillery—A Partnership of Heritage and Innovation
The partnership between Sharpham Wine and Devon Distillery represents the perfect blend of tradition and innovation. With a shared focus on sustainability, quality, and craftsmanship, both businesses are committed to producing exceptional products that showcase the best of Devon’s terroir.
By upcycling the grape skins from Sharpham’s red wine production, Devon Distillery creates Dappa, a spirit that reflects the unique character of the vineyard and the legacy of the Caddy family. Together, we are proud to continue this family tradition, creating products that are both sustainable and of the highest quality.
