The Waters Edge Winery & Bistro is a franchise-based winery concept that allows you to own a winery without the cost, risk and uncertainty of a vineyard. The Waters Edge Winery & Bistro combines the authenticity of winemaking and the winery experience with the accessibility of the wine bar model. State-of-the-art technology allows us to procure quality grapes grown around the world year round. In addition to providing the finished wine for your start-up inventory, we set you on a course to soon be able to make all the wine you sell in your location.

The Waters Edge Winery & Bistro franchise allows you to be in business for yourself, but never by yourself. With a full-time staff ready to assist our franchisees with anything from winemaking questions, to marketing and social media, to handling paperwork, forms, applications and spread-sheets, you get to spend more time doing what our franchisees love to do: Run the winery and mingle with guests.

We have locations in California, Ohio, Oklahoma, Texas, Kentucky, Illinois, Montana.  It is our goal with your help to have The Waters Edge Winery & Bistro open in every available state in the US!

Function of the owner/daily tasks: 

Most important function of the owner is to be the face of the winery both internally and externally. The owner must develop a strong connection with the local community and set the pace of the business by being involved in all aspects. The typical day starts around 9-10 a.m. getting the store ready and also performing any winemaking tasks. The winery opens around 11 – noon in most locations. The owner should oversee the staff and set an example by being at the bar serving guests during some part of the day. The winery usually closes around 7 pm on weekdays, later on weekends. The owner often will stay until closing, but it is not required if the staff is well-trained.

Desired background of prospects and Ideal candidate 

The two most important traits are a passion for wine, and a good understanding of marketing and sales. The community will not be looking for a winery, so to build the business, the ownership must promote the winery in the community. However, once the winery is a known entity, this will become less important over time.