FOOD and drink producers in Teignbridge have made it onto the shortlist of the annual Food and Drink Devon Awards. 

The finalists have been announced ahead of the awards in October. 

Making it to the final of this year’s product categories are Creamo’s Craft Ice Cream in Ashburton and the Shepherd Shack in Dawlish.

Huxbear Vineyard in Chudleigh is in the running for the first Devon Wine of the Year award where the grapes are grown in the county and the wine produced and bottled here. 

Shortlisted establishments in the fine dining restaurant, restaurant and pub categories include Two Bridges Hotel on Dartmoor.

Finalists for the best ‘Training School’ award include Ashburton Cookery School and Chefs Academy. 

Since entries closed in April, a distinguished panel of judges and industry experts has evaluated an high number of entries sampling over 340 products, visiting 107 hospitality venues, exploring 17 retail outlets and experiencing nine training schools.

Now in its 13th year, the esteemed industry accolades celebrate the best food and drink the region has to offer.

Food Drink Devon board director, Jack Pickering, said: ‘We are thrilled to celebrate the exceptional quality and diversity of this year's entrants into our awards.  

‘From innovative products to outstanding venues, Devon’s food and drink community spirit shone brightly during our 2024 judging. 

‘It's a testament to the hard work and creativity of everyone in the industry. We have so much to be proud of.’

Shortlisted businesses in the ‘Product Awards’ cover a huge variety of delights including sweet and savoury, meat, preserves, jams and chutneys, ales, ciders, wines and confectionery, as well as many others.  

Food Drink Devon board director and wine writer and presenter, Susy Atkins comments on the drink entries; ‘The number of entries in the drinks section of this year’s awards was much higher than ever before and our expert judges, including myself, were really impressed by the overall standard. Devon’s drinks scene is diverse and inspiring. 

‘The standard of the Devon wines was excellent and we are delighted with the first winner of our new ‘Devon Wine of the Year’ award.’