Growers from Puglia are optimistic already a few days after the start of the new season. The fact that the last season ended well despite the phytosanitary problems livened up the segment, which had been suffering due to varietal changes and consumer preferences.
Lorenzo Gassi, an entrepreneur from Rutigliano (Bari) with 10 hectares of traditional and seedless varieties, is pleased with how the year has started.
Prime variety.
"Luckily there have been no big problems in the fields and the markets are responding well. There is a 20-30% drop in yields, especially for seedless varieties, due to the mild winter season. I sold the first batches of the Prime and Star Light seedless varieties with no problem whatsoever, at prices between €1.30 and €1.50/kg. Grape producers can finally smile again."
Star Light variety.
"Traders are appreciating the productions. They are not being pessimistic and they are not haggling, as there is no reason to fear an uncertain commercial trend with losses for those who purchase. The only unknown variable is climate change."
Expectations are high for intermediate and late varieties as well. "Operators are very interested in the varieties to be harvested over the next few months. Considering the lack of produce occurred last fall, there are those who want to make sure not to be left without supplies, so they are inspecting the produce and signing agreements very early. We are hoping that this buzz will not die down."
For more information:
Azienda Agricola Pontrelli & Figli
Tel.: +39 328 366 5701 (Lorenzo)