Australian grape growers are seeing an excellent large crop this season, and of good quality grapes, according to Jeff Scott, CEO of the Australian Table Grape Association. "The harvest started in mid-December, we have many new varieties in full production this season and we will run right through to May."
"Rain at the end of last year was isolated and gave the vines a good watering. The weather has been excellent and if it stays as it is it will be a big year for Australian grapes."
Last year the grape yield was 25% lower than normal, but this year it looks like it will be 25% up on the normal level.
"The volumes will be higher, but also the quality is very good this year. We have all of the normal varieties and many of the new, popular ones are in full production. Growers are consistently planting more new varieties. We have good demand domestically as well as in the export markets. Some growers grow for the domestic market, while others target the overseas markets. Often prices here in Australia are high and there is no need to export."
In July last year, Australia gained access to Japan for additional varieties, they had only been allowed to export Crimson seedless, Red Globe, and Thompson seedless. Now they can export 150 different varieties.
"This has created a lot of excitement and there will be a lot of grapes going to Japan this year. It is fantastic that we can start when the quality of the grapes is good. We are also seeing strong demand from New Zealand, Korea, and Indonesia."
For more information:
Jeff Scott
ATGA
Tel: +61 417 122 086
Email: jscott@atga.net.au