Investing in, developing and passing down a vineyard

From investment and growth to transmission, Agrifrance supports wine estates at every stage of their long-term development.

 

French viticulture is much more than an industry. It is a living heritage, shaped by generations of winegrowers whose expertise, commitment and passion have contributed to the reputation of some of the world's most renowned wine regions.

Yet behind every successful wine estate lies a series of strategic decisions. Acquiring vineyard land, financing growth, adapting to changing markets and preparing for succession are all key challenges that can determine the future of an estate for decades to come.

For more than 45 years, Benoît Léchenault and the teams at Agrifrance, the rural property specialist of BNP Paribas Banque Privée, have been helping investors, landowners and winegrowers navigate these challenges. Combining technical expertise, deep market knowledge and wealth planning capabilities, Agrifrance supports clients through every stage of a wine estate's development, from investment opportunities to intergenerational transfer.

 

 

Vineyard land continues to attract investors seeking tangible assets rooted in the real economy and backed by a compelling long-term story.

 

 

While financial considerations remain important, investing in vineyards is often driven by a deeper, more personal motivation. Owning a small part of France's renowned winegrowing heritage offers investors the opportunity to help preserve exceptional terroirs while supporting family-owned estates that contribute to the enduring excellence of French viticulture.

Beyond its heritage dimension, vineyard land can also play a meaningful role within a broader wealth strategy. As a tangible long-term asset, they provide diversification alongside more traditional financial investments. The combination of rural lease structures, potential capital appreciation and favourable transmission planning considerations makes winegrowing land an attractive addition to a diversified portfolio.

Every successful wine estate has its own story. For the Lequien family, that story is one of dedication, investment and a long-term commitment to building a sustainable business across generations.

 

Located in Chavot-Courcourt, on the edge of the renowned Côte des Blancs, Champagne Lequien Père et Fils has gradually expanded from a small vineyard operation into a 14-hectare estate. This development reflects decades of hard work, strategic investment and a clear vision for the future.

Yet growth in the wine sector often requires significant capital. In Champagne, where winegrowing land can command prices exceeding €1 million per hectare, securing the right financial partners can be crucial to turning ambition into reality.

Through its specialist knowledge of rural property and its extensive network, Agrifrance has helped bring together investors and winegrowers whose objectives are aligned over the long term. These partnerships have supported the vineyard's development while safeguarding the values and independence that define a family-owned business.

 

 

As wine estates grow and mature, attention naturally turns to another defining milestone: succession.

 

 

In the wine industry, preparing for a generational handover is often one of the most important decisions an owner will face. A successful transition goes far beyond the transfer of assets. It is about passing on expertise, values, relationships and a long-term vision that will guide the estate's future.

The arrival of Charlotte Lequien within the family business is an excellent example of this new chapter. Having gradually learnt the profession, she is now helping to shape the future of the business, from developing wine tourism activities and strengthening its digital presence to enhancing the positioning and promotion of champagne

Yet her next generation faces a very different environment from her predecessors. Evolving market dynamics, changing consumer expectations and more demanding environmental requirements are redefining the industry. In response, Champagne Lequien Père & Fils has embraced a sustainable approach to viticulture. Its High Environmental Value certification reflects a commitment not only to preserving the quality of the land, but also to ensuring the sustainability of the estate for future generations.

 

 

Do you have a project regarding a vineyard, a forest or farmland?

The Agrifrance team and your relationship manager are available to discuss your situation and support you in making your project a reality.

 

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