Grape production out of Central California is underway, albeit with a later start. “Like everything else, we’re about two weeks behind where we normally are,” says Justin Bedwell of Bari Produce, noting that cooler spring temperatures are behind the delay. “Usually we get going out of Central California for grapes right after the 4th of July and we’re actually just starting this week with our reds and greens and some of our specialty grapes.”
With the industry in California estimated to have a similar volume to last year in table grapes, Bari Produce will as well, even with the removal of some of the older varieties. (Some newer varieties taking their place.) On red seedless grapes, it’s starting with the industry standard Flame, an older but good-eating grape. Next up will be the Passion Fire grapes and then Krissy grapes--both larger, newer varieties of red seedless grapes. On green grapes, it will start with Ivory, then move into the Great Green variety and then Sweet Globe, all of which are also newer varieties.
The late start for Central California also follows the late start that Mexico saw on its grape season. “Usually we get a break between Mexico and Central California and this year that is not the case,” says Bedwell. “They were crossing grapes later than they ever have been and that will put a little bit of pressure or create a split market on Mexican and California grapes right now.”
Slower momentum
As for demand, it is described as okay. Given the presence still of Mexican grapes in the marketplace, the Central California season hasn’t started out with the momentum that it generally does. “Usually when you start a new district, demand is greater than supply but now it’s keeping up with what we have,” he says. “However we’re just starting this week so I’m hoping as we have more packages in here that it will pick up.”
That said, Asian markets are reportedly excited about California grapes getting underway and Bari Produce will likely start packing export in the next week or so. “That should help move the volume on our early crop,” says Bedwell. “Domestically, August is usually a bit of a transition month when people take vacations and buyers are gone so the domestic supply will be good for the next 30 days.”
As for pricing, it’s similar to last year at this time. “With the way Mexico is going a bit later and the way that we’re behind, we are just trying to get the market set so it can move the crop and get it going,” adds Bedwell.
For more information:
Justin Bedwell
Bari Produce
Tel: +1 (559) 560-5600
[email protected]
www.bariproduce.com