Selling your estate in 2026: One option is to sell it in lots

For the past 18 months, sales volumes have decreased significantly for certain categories of estates.

However, the market remains dynamic for three types of properties:

• Properties with highly recognized appellations: estates with a well-known brand, classified growths, or Burgundy “crus” and “clos”.
• Properties featuring high-quality architecture in a flawless environment.
• Small estates, up to 15 to 20 hectares of vineyards.

For the rest of the market—representing around 80% of properties according to the Vinea Transaction observatory—sales have slowed down considerably, or even come to a halt. For example, a 30-hectare property is already considered a large estate.

In response to this context, the Vinea Transaction network completed several lot-based sales in 2025. This approach involves preparing and offering “apartment-style” sales, which may require dividing the estate into three or four separate transactions.

Selling certain lots to neighboring owners, as well as potentially selling buildings to a different clientele—French or international—can be a relevant strategy. In the current political and economic climate, buyers with significant budgets tend to act cautiously.

These subdivision strategies must be carefully considered.

A preliminary audit is essential.

Identifying the lots is a key step, along with quickly approaching neighbors who may be interested. Some lots may be sold to third parties (particularly neighbors), while others can be retained for a later sale.

A financial and tax audit is also crucial to determine values, with particular attention paid to capital gains risks. The nature of the property, the date it was acquired, and the existence of leases are all determining factors.

Partial sale

Accepting a partial sale—retaining part of the property while leasing it to the buyer—is another option worth considering. It should be noted that the tenant farmer has priority in the event of a future sale, particularly with regard to SAFER.

Lot-based sales therefore provide practical solutions, even though this approach was rarely recommended until recently.

True expertise is required, especially since the sales process may take one to two years. In addition, some lots may not find buyers immediately.

The Vinea Transaction team is at your disposal to support you with a tailored approach, which may include a phased sales strategy.

The Vinea Transaction Team 🍷✨