NAPA TRACY STYLE

SO WE THOUGHT WE’D BUY A VINEYARD!

The excitement wine lovers have for a wine-centric lifestyle is hard to rival. They immerse themselves in ‘all things wine’ and often dream of turning their passions into a more serious commitment. And for those who have the means, this may mean looking into purchasing a vineyard property or even a winery here in the Napa Valley. While the prospect of this is bucket list item for many, the wealthiest 1% continue to view property as a great way to shelter capitol and vineyards are one of the trending alternatives, be it in the Napa Valley, France or Italy. For affluent buyers, expanding their real estate portfolio with a quintessential second home in Napa Valley is often a beautiful estate with acres of vineyards or a hobby vineyard in which to dabble. And for those willing to take the ultimate next step, taking a more immersive approach and joining the wine industry.

There are a few things to know and different ways to go about buying a vineyard property. Having a clear goal and strategy to map out what you want to create, be it a vineyard for personal consumption, an acreage property to sell grapes or make wine, or to start a winery business and host guests on your property. The realm of commitment is vast from one spectrum to another – whether it be time, expense, knowledge, or investment in the community. And which direction one opts to take should not be taken lightly. Whichever route is taken, conducting thorough research and aligning with the right people is crucial. I always encourage people to immerse themselves in the wine industry and local community to get to know the people involved and start a network before any decisions are made. A real estate consultant well versed in this niche is important along with their team of wine industry experts to help advise on viability factors such as use permits, water availability, soil conditions, and slope analysis to name just a few.

The purchase process for a vineyard property can be lengthy and very complex and frankly is best suited for buyers with an appetite for risk. Getting accurate numbers and realistic time frames is also crucial when starting a new vineyard. A newly planted vineyard can take up to 4 years to produce, and the initial costs just for the vineyard can run you $35,000–$75,000 per acre to start, however these costs drop over time as the vineyard starts producing.

No matter which direction you take, be sure you’ve done your due diligence and are committed to what you’ve set forth as your ultimate end game, whether it be the grapes you grow or the wine you make. Relationships with viticulturists, land use attorneys, vineyard management companies, wine makers and consultants are just a few of the people I bring to my clients when we are looking at vineyard properties.

If this is a step you’re ready to take, please reach out to me and my team of experts. I’m always happy to help.

Tracy Warr // Napa Tracy Style Napa Valley Real Estate Specialist

(707) 287-1994 // TWARR@CBNAPAVALLEY.COM // NAPATRACYSTYLE.COM // DRE# 01443203