Buy or Sell a Winery
Buying or selling a winery is not a standard commercial transaction. It involves layered regulatory approvals, licensed operations that cannot lapse during a transition, vineyard land subject to agricultural and conservation restrictions, and brand assets whose value depends on appellation rights and compliance with designations. A misstep on any of these fronts can delay or collapse a deal.
We advise buyers and sellers through every phase of a winery transaction. From structuring and due diligence through to closing and post-closing integration, with a focus on the regulatory, land, and operational issues that are specific to the sector.
Some of our services include:
- Advising on transaction structure, including asset versus share purchases and related tax and liability considerations (in coordination with tax advisors).
- Conducting legal due diligence specific to winery operations, including licensing status, regulatory compliance, contracts, and land use.
- Drafting and negotiating purchase and sale agreements, ancillary documents, and closing deliverables.
- Advising on the transfer, amendment, or reissuance of AGCO manufacturer’s licences and on-site retail authorizations.
- Coordinating regulatory approvals and notifications involving the AGCO, and other applicable authorities.
- Reviewing vineyard land ownership, leases, zoning, agricultural protections, and conservation authority issues.
- Advising on grape supply agreements, grower contracts, custom crush arrangements, and production agreements.
- Reviewing and transferring intellectual property, including wine brands, trademarks, domain names, and appellation-related rights.
- Advising on inventory treatment, excise duties, mark-ups, and regulatory reporting at closing.
- Assisting with post-closing integration issues, including regulatory compliance, distribution arrangements, and operational transitions.