Planting New Vineyards in Tuscany: The Quota System

When one thinks of Tuscany, beyond its art cities, history, food, and stunning beaches, viticulture is an essential part of the picture. This land of prestigious wines like Brunello and Bolgheri is also home to family wine traditions and small wineries that proudly present their products. Tuscany offers a unique landscape in the wine sector, characterized by a rich selection and evocative brands that are impossible not to fall in love with.

For this reason, it often happens that a simple passion for viticulture turns into the desire to start a small farm capable of producing and bottling its own wine. In this case, you have two options: buy a property with existing vineyards or plant new ones. However, in the second case, it’s necessary to understand the mechanism of the so-called “quotas.”

Planting New Vineyards in Tuscany: The Regulations

In Italy, vineyard plantings under 1,000 square meters are freely allowed and considered for personal consumption. Above this limit, however, specific authorizations are required according to both European and national regulations. This system, introduced to regulate wine production and avoid overproduction, establishes that authorization for new plantings cannot be purchased, but must be granted through official allocation.

New Vineyard Authorizations: Who Can Apply and How

Each year, the Ministry of Agriculture (MASAF) publishes a national call for applications, setting the total number of new hectares that will be granted to farms.

To participate in the call, you must be registered as an agricultural business and have an up-to-date business file with a CAA (Agricultural Assistance Center).

Each farm can apply for a certain number of hectares, proportional to its total land area, usually between January and March (specific dates vary each year) through the National Agricultural Information System (SIAN). The authorization is communicated by June 30 of the same year.

Farms can participate in the call for new plantings every year, accumulating authorizations. The only requirement is that new vineyards must be planted within three years from the date the authorization is granted.

Vineyard Quotas: Final Thoughts

Buying property in Tuscany is a dream for those seeking tranquility, unspoiled nature, and outstanding food and wine. Tuscany is also a top destination for wine enthusiasts who often dream of owning land suitable for vineyards. If this is your dream, you first need to understand how the quota system works, so you can properly plan the development of your winery.

We are here to provide you with all the information you need and to help you find the perfect property to make your dream come true.

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