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German Businessman Lists 65-Acre California Vineyard for $16M

The family compound, called Great Oaks, includes 21 acres of grape vines, plus an equestrian facility, putting green and tennis courts

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A 65-acre estate with enough amenities to be a family’s personal resort—including an established vineyard, four-hole putting green, pool, equestrian facility and tennis court—is selling in California’s Santa Ynez Valley for $15.95 million.

The property has served as a family compound for German shipping magnate Erck Rickmers since 2012, according to property records. Mr. Rickmers, 53, a supporter of human rights organizations, entrepreneur and heir to the Rickmers Group shipping fortune, and his wife, Cristina, were not available to comment for this article.

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The businessman bought the property after taking on an academic opportunity at University of Southern California Santa Barbara, but has now returned to Europe, said listing agent Ann Abernethy of Ranch Marketing Associates, who did not identify Mr. Rickmers by name.

Known as Great Oaks Vineyard & Ranch, the estate has been a part of the region’s wine-making scene for decades and comes with 21 acres of planted grape varietals, including Cabernet Franc, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay.

These days, the farm produces and sells its grapes to well-known winemaker Andrew Murray, whose family-owned winery operates out of Los Olivos, California.

Local winemaker Steve Clifton said the property yields some of the best Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon in the region, thanks to the property’s location. "It sits just a little bit higher than the fog line, so it sees a lot more sun in the afternoon ripening these varietals," said Mr. Clifton in a video about the property.

In addition to the wine operation, the estate has vast equestrian facilities suitable for "many, many horses," Ms. Abernethy said. That includes a covered arena, irrigated grass pastures, riding trails, an exercise ring and a 10-stall barn.

The property also encompasses a pool and a helicopter hangar used in the past for events. There are also three private guest houses, including a one-bedroom manager’s cottage.

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In their five years as stewards of the ranch, the current owners have added a number of features to the home. They include a hand-cut sandstone entertainment patio, an 82-foot swimming pool lined in Italian tile, newly planted lavender fields and olive trees, and a detached office-guest house, according to Ms. Abernethy.

"This is a multi-generational compound, older children, grandchildren—it’s a place where everyone has something to do," Ms. Abernethy said. As an example of the home’s entertaining potential, the broker is hosting a mixer between a delegation of top Italian winemakers and local vintners at the estate.

"If someone were to sit on a board, it’s perfect for a non-profit organization’s events. It’s a beautiful wedding spot. It’s a perfect corporate retreat," Ms. Abernethy said. "It has that destination, romantic touch."