And now Virgin wine

Sir Richard Branson, who yesterday was in Palma, announced that he will soon be adding another product to his long list of assets. The Virgin tycoon said that a vineyard had been planted at his Son Bunyola estate in Banyalbufar which will start producing wine in two years' time. Branson already has Virgin Cola and Virgin vodka in his list of beverage achievements. Sir Richard has spent a week holidaying on Majorca with his family and he said that the almonds and olives produced on his estate would be used by his hotel “La Residencia” in Deia. He went on to say that he hoped he would still be able to build a hotel at his Banyalbufar base but that the matter was now up to the local planning authorities: “If we get permission we will do so but if not, we will turn the manor-house into a private home.” Upon being asked whether the house would be for him, he replied “Not necessarily.” Branson's dreams of turning his estate into the most luxurious hotel in the world have been left on the drawing board for quite some time as planners weave back and forth in their decisions. All that has been built so far are two luxury beach side villas, one having housed the Duchess of York and her children this week. Branson has spent the week playing tennis, golf and generally enjoying himself on the island.