If you're thinking of selling your winery, rather than closing, this article is for you. These are the top things to consider when positioning your winery for sale in today's market.  If you’re in the wine industry, you already know that this is a hard market. There are an increasing number of wineries for sale, and you likely know several others that would sell if they had the opportunity. So what do you need to do if you’re seriously considering selling your winery in the near future and want to maximize the value of that sale? Here are three areas to focus on: maximizing your cash flow, assessing your salable assets, and being honest with your expectations. Read on my Substack page. Maximize Your Cash Flow The best way to show that your winery is worth the price is to have cash flow. The highest value in a winery is, in fact, cash coming in. At the same time, most wineries consider selling because they don’t have enough of it. That tension is real, and

At LibDib, we’ve always believed in empowering craft Makers with tools and support to thrive in the complex world of three-tier distribution. That’s why we created LibDib Gold, a premium membership tier designed for serious brands ready to scale. With Gold, you get more than distribution—you get strategy, support, and savings. The benefits of a LibDib Gold Membership include: 1. Dedicated Portfolio Management to Guide You Navigating the three-tier system isn’t easy—but you don’t have to go it alone. LibDib Gold Members receive Portfolio Management services from seasoned industry experts. Our PMs aren’t just support staff—they’re distribution specialists who understand regulatory nuances, pricing strategy, compliance, and market entry.  They work with you directly to: Review offerings and suggest improvements Help optimize portfolios for each market Provide guidance on pricing, logistics, and timing Troubleshoot issues and escal

In today’s evolving alcohol industry, one-size-fits-all distribution no longer works for every brand. Consolidation across the three tiers, shifting priorities at large distributors, and increasing demand for control and flexibility have changed the game—especially for small to mid-sized wine and spirits suppliers. At LibDib, we believe in doing things differently. We give suppliers the tools to build their own route to market with Distribution à la Carte—meaning, you only pay for the services you need. No outdated programs, no hidden fees, no monthly minimums. Just distribution, on your terms. What Is “Distribution à la Carte”? Put simply, it’s the idea that you choose your route to market. LibDib offers a full-service, licensed distribution platform in 18 key markets, including California, our flagship state. We have the infrastructure, tech, and partnerships to support all kinds of go-to-market strategies—but we don’t req

Expanded industry specialization, geographic reach and private equity investment position the firm for long-term growth and innovation. CHICAGO and SEATTLE (April 21, 2025) – In a transformative move that redefines advisory and accounting services for the middle market, Baker Tilly and Moss Adams today announced their planned combination to create the sixth largest advisory CPA firm in the US. Expected to close in early June of this year, the combination strengthens the firms’ industry specialization, expands its geographic reach and enhances its capabilities across advisory, tax and assurance services. With complementary strengths and a shared commitment to client success, Baker Tilly and Moss Adams will unite under the Baker Tilly name, forming a leading firm positioned to help middle-market businesses navigate an increasingly complex environment. Jeff Ferro, CEO of Baker Tilly, will serve as CEO of the combined firm through his retirement, with Eric Miles, cur

This education series is designed for professionals at all levels, from newcomers to the wine industry to seasoned executives. Whether you’re a winery accountant aiming for your next promotion, an experienced CFO looking to benchmark your expertise, or a banker, attorney, or CPA seeking deeper industry insights, this series provides valuable knowledge tailored to your needs. Covering every aspect of the wine business, including production, sales and marketing, finance, and administration, the series offers a comprehensive understanding of winery operations. Participants are eligible to earn 8 AICPA CPE credits in accordance with NASBA rules and regulations. The series is developed and led by Timothy Allen, CPA, MST. As the managing partner of Allen Wine Group, Timothy brings over thirty years of winery finance expertise, including five years with a Big 4 accounting firm, fourteen years in winery finance and operations, and fourteen years leading Allen Wine Group. This specific c

This education series is designed for professionals at all levels, from newcomers to the wine industry to seasoned executives. Whether you’re a winery accountant aiming for your next promotion, an experienced CFO looking to benchmark your expertise, or a banker, attorney, or CPA seeking deeper industry insights, this series provides valuable knowledge tailored to your needs. Covering every aspect of the wine business, including production, sales and marketing, finance, and administration, the series offers a comprehensive understanding of winery operations. Participants are eligible to earn 8 AICPA CPE credits in accordance with NASBA rules and regulations. The series is developed and led by Timothy Allen, CPA, MST. As the managing partner of Allen Wine Group, Timothy brings over thirty years of winery finance expertise, including five years with a Big 4 accounting firm, fourteen years in winery finance and operations, and fourteen years leading Allen Wine Group. This specific c

The Wine Industry’s Talent Crisis: Why Investing in Mid-Level Professionals Is Essential for the Future

As the workforce ages and young talent burns out, the wine industry risks losing its next generation of leaders and ambassadors. Heres how to reverse the trend and secure the future of wine.

The changing landscape of sales Nearly every advancement in professional selling is due to the use of technology. When you fold in the rapid evolution of consumer behavior - such as independent online research and social media - you have a perfect storm that will leave most salespeople bobbing precariously in the wake of forward progress.  This article is intended as a wake-up call to all sales professionals in our industry. Salespeople who are comfortable with and proficient in using digital tools will reap significant advantages compared to “traditional” salespeople. The reward for the tech-savvy includes higher productivity and better customer insights. Adaptability is an attribute that will become increasingly prized as time goes on. Traditional versus modern sales methods Historically, most salespeople rely on ‘traditional’ means of selling. We are all familiar with these common methods, such as: Face-to-face appointments with samples in tow Phon

With the passage of California Senate Bill 1162 (SB 1162), the Pay Transparency Act, in September of 2022, businesses that operate in or hire out of California have new requirements to meet for payroll reporting. This new law, which went into effect on January 1, 2023, sets new standards for Pay Data Reporting (PRD) to help businesses better identify existing pay disparities and prevent potential pay disparities for employees based on race, ethnicity, sex, and other protected characteristics. The Pay Transparency Act is a further evolution of California’s existing pay data reporting law—a law that is important for any business located in California or hiring out of California to understand. California business law can be complex and difficult to navigate, so we’ll break down the basics of California pay data reporting laws, including what’s changed since SB 1162 went into effect. What is CA Pay Data Reporting? In 2020, California enacted its first pay data law,

Elevate Your Brand Reach TWO Influential Industries, Wine & Cannabis Professionals, with one event! The 2021 Wine & Weed Symposium, a sold-out event it's first three years, will be largely focused on bringing together thought leaders & innovators that are interested in exploring the collaborative & educational opportunities that exist between the wine & cannabis industries. The event attracts both wine & cannabis leaders from across California and offers a great opportunity to enhance your brand’s visibility. A variety of options are available ranging from advertising in the Show Guide to sponsorships that include several exposure levels; Tote-Bags, VIP Symposium Tables, Networking Mixers, and more. Exposure Options: Sponsorships Extend your brand identity and marketing capabilities with a strong visible presence and take advantage of the opportunity to tie your brand identity not only to Wine & Weed, but to the educational aspects of t