“Thinking of starting a vineyard on your property, or already have a vineyard….. but can’t do all the work?”
Planting a vineyard in Maryland can be an exciting and profitable business opportunity. The state is experiencing an exciting growth in winery development, which has created a major demand for Maryland-grown grapes. According to the Maryland Wineries Association, during the 2006 season, for every ton of Maryland-grown grapes used by Maryland wineries, approximately one and one-third tons had to be imported from other states in order to meet the need. Currently, Maryland has approximately 400 acres of grapes planted in approximately 120 vineyards and has 31 licensed wineries.
Due to the extensive attention and work required to create a quality vineyard, Maryland Grape Growers Association suggests that most potential vineyard owners will require assistance in order to seriously consider making the investment of time and energy. Grape growers and counties on the Eastern Shore have been discussing the feasibility of establishing a Vineyard Management Company (VMC).
A VMC works with landowners and growers who have an interest in establishing a vineyard operation or already own a vineyard, but who may not have the knowledge or be able to do some or all of the work involved. A property owner or a grower can contract with the VMC to do whatever portion of the vineyard operation they choose not to do, including design, planting, maintenance and harvesting of the grape crop, or hire the VMC for consultation.
Because of the strong demand by Maryland wineries for Maryland-grown grapes, a properly established and maintained vineyard that produces quality grapes is virtually assured a market for its product. With local vineyards experiencing crops ranging from 3 tons to 5 tons per acre after 3 years of growth, and grape sales ranging from $800 to $1,500 per ton, a vineyard operation can prove to be a valuable long-term investment.
Sponsored by the Mid-Shore Regional Council and the Talbot Cooperative Extension, a seminar will be held on Friday, November 21st in Cordova to explore the process of establishing a vineyard, resources, and how a VMC might help you. Please call Talbot Cooperative Extension 410-822-1244 or sdill@umd.edu to reserve a spot.
“Owning a Vineyard…without all the work–A Vineyard Management Company Seminar”
When: Friday, November 21, 2008
Time: 9:00 a.m. until Noon (Rain or Shine)
Where: Tidewater Vineyards
Located at the intersection of Three Bridge Branch Road and Cordova Road
Direction: From Rt. 50 turn onto Cordova Road (Rt. 309), take a left onto Three Bridge Branch Rd.
You will be able to see the greenhouse and the vineyard.