The growth of the UK wine industry has been stratospheric, it’s no longer a novelty, it’s a thriving industry, and there’s a huge appetite for the product and for investment in the sector. As expected, there’s a knock-on effect on the property market.
James Greenwood of Stacks Property Search says, “The success of English wine has led to increased interest from property buyers looking to capitalize on the burgeoning industry. Owning a vineyard can provide a combination of lifestyle benefits and potential financial returns.
“Owning a vineyard is often seen as a prestigious and desirable lifestyle choice. It offers the opportunity to engage in wine production, enjoy rural living, and be part of a growing community of wine enthusiasts.
“The demand for boutique vineyard properties is driving up prices, and many existing farms and rural properties are being converted into vineyards, reflecting the profitability and appeal of wine production.”
Anto Clay of Stacks Property Search says he’s seen a huge demand for buyers looking for upwards of five to ten hectares to establish a vineyard and associated business spin-offs.
“But it’s not for the fainthearted. Successfully establishing and running a vineyard requires knowledge of viticulture and wine production. Potential buyers should be prepared to invest heavily in expertise. The costs of establishing and maintaining a vineyard is high, including land preparation, planting, equipment, and skilled labour. And there’s a time lapse of around five years between planting some vines and seeing a bottle of wine.
“For determined buyers, a going concern may be a safer option, but the premium on land that is planted with vines is high. Vineyard properties often have the potential for tourism and hospitality ventures, such as wine tasting rooms, event venues, and boutique accommodations. This can create additional revenue streams and enhance the property’s value.”
Nick Cunningham of Stacks Property Search says, “There’s a fortune to be made in the English wine industry – but buyers will need a large fortune to start out with.
“For those without the appropriately sized wallet, buying near a vineyard, or overlooking vines, is an attractive proposition offering a desirable rural lifestyle, scenic landscapes, and the appeal of living close to local wine production. Vines provide an attractive view, and it’s a relatively ‘safe’ view due to the long termism of the crop. Harvest time is often an opportunity to help out, meet neighbours, and enjoy a day in the autumn sunshine feeling part of the local community.”
“Alternatively, a communal venture could be an option. Shared ownership gives you all the benefits, and less of the burden in terms of cost, expertise and labour. You can still enjoy drinking your own wine, sell locally and there is a committed pool of workers to draw on at harvest time.
“Dalwood Vineyard in East Devon has done just this. Six villagers with a shared interest got together and made it happen, planting their first vines in 2009. The wines are excellent and have a loyal local following.”
James Greenwood says, “The presence of vineyard spin-offs such as farm shop, restaurant, and tasting events is a double-edged sword; traffic volumes may be high, so check out the reality carefully. The Cotswolds’ Diddly Squat should serve as a warning!”
Stacks Property Search, 01594 842880 / www.stacks.co.uk
