Vineyard FAQ’s

Veraison Partners has spent thousands of hours advising winery clients, many of which are focused on vineyard installation and maintenance projects. Here are list of the most frequently asked questions about vineyards, as well as our corresponding answers to each unique inquiry.

How much does it cost to install a vineyard?

Vineyard installation projects are generally priced between $30,000-$35,000 per acre by reputable vinification companies. Each project is custom, and factors such as land shape, slope, vine and row spacing, boulder/tree removal and land preparation process can all contribute to fluctuations in final estimates.

Can I offset some of the initial costs of a vineyard by doing work myself? 

Absolutely. Most reputable vinification companies will price out vineyards projects based upon materials and labor, and any contribution you make should take down the final estimated price of the project.

What does the vineyard installation process look like?

Vineyard installations are done in 3 phases: Infrastructure, irrigation, and planting. The infrastructure phase creates the trellising systems that are used to train vines. The irrigation phase creates automated watering systems for your vineyard. Lastly, the planting phase is the final stage where vines are placed in the vineyard.

What does the payment structure look like for my vinification project?

Most reputable vinification companies will break payments up over the duration of the project. Some choose to do 50% down, and 50% at the completion of the project. Some will break payments into smaller increments, and bill according to completed phases of the project. Most importantly, no vinification company should bill a client for the entire project prior to the completion of said project.

When do I plant my vines?

Planting season for vines is April into mid-May. Planting in the spring allows vines to take root for a season and acclimate to their new environment before going dormant later in the later in the year. Its important to plant before the heat of the summer months as well, as protracted periods of hot weather can hurt new vines if they have not had time to root.

How long does it take for my vines to come to maturity?

Vines typically begin producing fruit in their 3rd year, though 3rd year fruit may or may not be usable. By year 4, vines will begin producing fruit suitable for winemaking.

What does vineyard maintenance look like?

From the time that vines awaken in the spring to the time they are dormant in the winter, vines do require maintenance. For the first 3-4 years, vineyard maintenance mostly involves training your vines to your trellis system to ensure you are creating a solid foundation for growth. When vines are mature and producing fruit, vineyard management is a year around process including but not limited to: canopy management, fertilizing, harvesting, and pruning.

Do I maintenance my vineyard myself, or hire a company?

Ultimately, the choice is yours. Veraison Partners loves to see vineyard owners invested in their properties, and encourages self management of vineyards whenever possible. However we understand that time is of the essence for many property owners, and can recommend several vineyard management companies that will do an excellent job maintaining your vineyard.

How much water will my vineyard use?

Vineyards are not water intensive crops. Our estimates are that you will use 20 gallons per acre per week at the peak of the growing season in the summer months. In winter months when vines are dormant, your vines will require no water at all.

How much will my Vineyard Yield?

Conservatively a vineyard will yield 2 tons per acre, but depending upon the grape varietal and vintage a vineyard can yield up to 4-5 tons per acre per harvest.

How much can In sell a ton of grapes for?

Prices per ton on grapes vary, but a good estimate for price per ton is between $1500-$2000.

Who can I sell my grapes to?

There are several ways to ensure that your grapes are allocated, and you are paid for the fruits of your labor. You can enter into an agreement with a vintner who agrees to purchase your harvest for a specified number of years. You can also have a broker, such as Vines of the Valley, represent you and broker the sale of your grapes to winters on a yearly basis. As of now, there is more demand in the Yucaipa Valley for grapes than there is supply.

What GRape Varietal should i plant?

Ultimately, the choice is yours. The most important factor is that you are passionate about what you are growing. If you live in the Yucaipa Valley, the only grape varietals that we would not recommend planting would be Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. All other varietals, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Syrah, Petite Sirah, and Zinfandel have been shown to grown exceedingly well in our climate.

What are the most common Pest Problems with a Vineyard?

Of all the pests that can be a nuisance to a vineyard, two typically present a majority of the issues. Gophers can be difficult to eradicate, and can cause damage to the roots of a vine. Similarly deer like to eat the leaves of grapevines, stunting vineyard growth.

How many vines does my project require?

One acre of vines, depending upon shape, size, and spacing, can contain anywhere from 900-1100 vines.

Can I lease My Land for A Vineyard Project?

We have yet to find a land lease business model that is beneficial to both the lessee and lessor, but we are open to discuss creative options for land lease deals.