As the world continues to adapt to the pandemic, many people are looking for new travel memberships and elite experiences to indulge in – luckily the answer for these individuals is two simple words: The Vines. The Vines is an exclusive explorer’s club and the first worldwide community dedicated to winemaking. Members have the opportunity to travel to the world’s most coveted wine regions and learn the art of winemaking with master practitioners, and even create their unique blends. However, don’t be too quick to sign up, memberships for The Vines are by invitation only… here’s why:
For background, in 2005, Michael Evans founded the luxury resort and private vineyard, The Vines of Mendoza in Argentina. After many years of running the successful resort and having visitors from around the world, Michael decided to develop a sister project – a membership-only program with one goal, get people to know the world by making wine. Michael launched The Vines membership club in early 2020 and it has now evolved globally. The club has outposts and partners in seven regions around the world, including Champagne, Mendoza, Montalcino, Napa Valley, Priorat, The Mosel, and Willamette Valley, and they continue to expand beyond.
In addition to traveling the world, members of The Vines are sent cases of wine throughout the year and are offered access to curated events centered around wine, food, culture and adventure. Over the course of the next five years, The Vines plans to offer winemaking in 12 different regions, as well as expand beyond winemaking, offering members a series of pop-ups like making Sake in Japan and Mezcal in Mexico.
Initiation fees are $100,000 and annual dues are $1,500- $3,000 per quarter. Winemaking costs per barrel range from $7,000 to $37,000 based on site. The initial application questionnaire can be found HERE.
