Tracking Harvest Costs: Labor, Materials, and Overhead

At Protea Financial, we know that for a winery, the rhythm of the year culminates in the intensity of harvest. This is the moment when all the hard work of the growing season comes to fruition.  This phase is unquestionably the most crucial and resource-intensive segment of your operational cycle. Although prioritizing grape quality is…
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Understanding the Impact of External Factors: Economic Conditions, Climate Change, and Consumer Trends

At Protea Financial, we know that running a winery demands an intense focus on internal operations – from nurturing the vines and perfecting blends to managing tasting room experiences and distribution. However, even the most meticulously run winery operates within a larger, dynamic ecosystem.  External factors, such as sweeping economic conditions, the undeniable shifts of…
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Beyond the Next Harvest: Why Long-Term Planning is Crucial for Wineries

For a winery, the rhythm of the business is deeply intertwined with the seasons. The anticipation of bud break, the meticulous care of the vines, the intensity of harvest, and the patient art of fermentation and aging – each cycle brings its own demands and rewards.  It’s easy to get caught up in the immediate,…
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From Grape to Glass: How Technology is Revolutionizing Winemaking

At Protea Financial, we witness daily how the wine industry, while steeped in tradition, is also a beacon of innovation. The journey from grape to glass has always been a blend of art and science, but increasingly, technology is playing a transformative role.  We’re not just seeing advancements in the vineyard and cellar; we’re also…
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Uncorking Efficiency: How to Conduct a Winery Inventory Count

At Protea Financial, we know that a well-executed inventory count is the cornerstone of accurate record-keeping, effective cost management, and informed decision-making for any winery. However, the unique nature of wine production, with its various stages, aging processes, and vintage variations, can make conducting a winery inventory count a complex undertaking.  Our team of bookkeeping…
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Employment Practices Liability Insurance (EPLI) is a Must-Have for Wineries (or Any Business) of All Sizes

Running a successful winery involves more than just crafting exceptional wines. It requires careful management of employees, compliance with labor laws, and a proactive approach to mitigating risks. One of the most significant risks businesses face today is employee-related lawsuits. This is where Employment Practices Liability Insurance (EPLI) becomes essential. Whether you operate a small…
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