What Winery Equipment Should I Buy First?
- Nate Jones, CPCU, ARM, CLCS, AU
- Nov 11
- 2 min read
Starting a winery is an exciting journey, but one of the biggest challenges for new owners is deciding which equipment to purchase first. The right tools and equipment ensure smooth operations, consistent wine quality, and compliance with industry standards.
This guide highlights essential winery equipment for beginners and explains why winery business insurance coverage is critical for protecting these investments.
Why Equipment Selection Matters
Your equipment choices affect:
Production efficiency
Wine quality and consistency
Startup costs and long-term profitability
Insurance requirements for property and asset protection
Essential Winery Equipment to Buy First
1. Grape Crusher
This machine separates stems and crushes grapes, preparing them for fermentation. It’s the first step in winemaking and a must-have for any winery.
Stainless steel or oak tanks are essential for fermenting grape juice into wine. Choose tanks based on your production volume and wine style.
3. Must Pumps
Used to transfer crushed grapes (must) and juice between tanks and presses. Pumps improve efficiency and reduce manual labor.
4. Wine Press
Presses extract juice from grapes after fermentation. Hydraulic or pneumatic presses are common for small to medium wineries.
5. Filtration Equipment
Filters remove impurities and stabilize wine before bottling. Proper filtration ensures clarity and quality.
6. Bottling and Packaging Equipment
Invest in a basic bottling line for filling, corking, and labeling bottles. Packaging equipment is essential for retail-ready products.
Additional Tools to Consider
Barrels for aging
Temperature control systems
Cleaning and sanitation equipment
How Equipment Ties Into Insurance
Your equipment represents a significant investment. Protect it with:
General Liability Insurance: Covers customer injuries.
Commercial Property Insurance: Protects your building and inventory.
Equipment Insurance: Safeguards winemaking machinery.
Workers’ Compensation: Covers employee injuries.
Commercial Auto Insurance: Protects delivery vehicles.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right equipment is the foundation of a successful winery. Start with essential tools like crushers, tanks, and bottling gear, and pair these investments with comprehensive insurance to protect your assets and operations. Wexford Insurance specializes in winery coverage designed for startups and growing businesses.
Ready to protect your winery equipment?
Contact Wexford Insurance today for expert guidance.
