(NBBJ) - It is becoming increasingly more difficult for small wineries to navigate the business terrain in light of the continued consolidation that is taking place among wholesalers, and the escalating operating-cost structures that have resulted from a supply shortage of grapes and bulk wine. Before jumping ahead with the purchase of a large acre estate in Napa Valley, it is essential to assess the marketplace for your potential brand. The vast majority of business in the U.S. wine industry is dominated by larger wine companies. Approximately 90 percent of U.S. wine production is controlled by the 20 largest wine companies.