By Nick H 
Being a wine lover or seller, you might be interested in establishing a vineyard since it is one of the ways you can quench your passion for wine and make money. However, you cannot just start running a vineyard without a plan. You need some knowledge and preparation to run a vineyard successfully. Planning a vineyard requires dedication and commitment. It is just like deciding to have a baby. You cannot see a cute child and go ahead to have one just because it is adorable. You need to be preparedfor all the responsibilities of raising a child. Running a vineyard has a lot of benefits and is a good business, but it comes with many responsibilities. This article will guide you on how to start and run a vineyard successfully.
Select the Site
Wine grapes do not just grow in any location. They grow well on hillsides, especially southwest-facing hillsides. You can also plant, grow and harvest quality wine grapes on flat areas as long as the soil is fertile and fit for production. However, the grapes tend to produce less vigorously and require more pruning. Site is, therefore, a crucial factor to consider when purchasing or leasing a vineyard. You can buy bare land and plant your vines, but purchasing an existing vineyard would be the best option since it is efficient and easier to start.If you want your wine business to kick start immediately, purchase a vineyard estate in Provence, and all you are required of is to start managing already existing vines
The Right Reasons
You need to have the right reasons to start a vineyard establishment successfully. The first thing you should understand is that a vineyard is expensive. Running, growing, and managing quality wine grapes cost time and money. Ensure you have the passion, the knowledge, and the resources to manage a vineyard. Be physically able to do hard labor or hire farm staff that will help you. Having been a winemaker for a long time and gaining the required experience is an added advantage.
Determine Whether Is For Home or Commercial Purposes
The size of land you need will depend on whether you want a vineyard for home winemaking or commercial purposes. This will also guide you in the region where you want to grow wine grapes. For homemaking wine, you need an acre or less; for commercial winemaking, you may need five acres and above.If you want to start a vineyard for business purposes, ensure you have potential winemakers who will buy your fruit.
Involve a Professional
Even if you know how to manage a vineyard, working with professionals who can guide you in some areas is wise. Talk to people around to learn about the best winemakers and learn from them. Also, hire a professional to help you determine if the soil is fit for vine growing and the right way to plant and manage vines. Learn more by attending wine associations, meetings and volunteer events, being a customer of local wineries and contributing to the local wine community.
In conclusion, Vineyard is a good business idea for winemakers and those passionate about vines. If managed well, a vineyard is a good source of income. However, you must have prior knowledge and be committed to running a successful vineyard. Choose the site carefully, do it for the right reasons and involve an expert to avoid running under loss.