Ben Worthen writes, "Going urban is a cheaper way to break into the wine industry. Buying a vineyard isn't practical for many winemakers. In addition to the cost of the land-"insanely expensive," says Michael Dashe of Dashe Cellars-it takes several years before newly planted vines produce usable fruit. In the East Bay's wineries, winemakers buy grapes from all over Northern California.
Cities like Oakland are helping to promote the cottage industry."
