"We started selling Red Magic (photo below) grapes from mid June, though it was affected by competition from Chile, which usually is no longer on the market by the end of May. This year though, it was still available at competitive prices."
Red Magic grapes.
With respect to 2013, prices have dropped, but volumes started getting interesting in the second half of June. "Demand comes mainly from Germany, Poland and Czech Republic, though our produce has to deal with that from Egypt, Israel and Morocco, which have lower production costs. This is a problem because the markets are often more interested in prices rather than quality, so many Italian producers cannot make a profit."
"Demand from the Russian market dropped in the past few years and it is very hard to sell there: lately they have become more European, i.e. they no longer pay for produce in advance or at a fixed price, so it is very risky for us."
In addition, Lorenzo stresses how there may even be opportunities on the Asian market, but transport times are very long. "The Asian market is very active and, since the season in India and Egypt ended, there could be room for us, though we are worried about the 30-day minimum transport time."
Italia grapes, which has a Brix level between 16 and 20.
"We are currently finishing with the greenhouse grape season, then we will continue with produce under films until mid-August followed by the open field one."
As regards availability, the exporter says that there have been some difficulties, as "demand increased considerably but we were not able to satisfy all our clients." Quantities will increase as from next week (12th and 13th July).
Italia grapes | Victoria grapes |
Palieri grapes | Red Magic grapes |
"Finally, Italia grapes is nearly ready and quality is looking excellent. I hope that the weather will help us."
Lorenzo also stresses how girdling is no longer carried out in many vineyards. "Personally, I believe it is not necessary, for it is not always true that bigger grapes have a better quality. Many clients know this and have opted to stop doing it: consumers prefer grapes that are smaller but sweeter."
Contacts:
Lorenzo Bellassai
Giovanni Bellassai import-export
Viale del lavoro s.n.c.
95040 Mazzarrone (CT)
Tel.: +39 (0)933 29546
Cell.: +39 339 8638049
Email: lorenzobellassai@gmail.com
Lorenzo Bellassai
Giovanni Bellassai import-export
Viale del lavoro s.n.c.
95040 Mazzarrone (CT)
Tel.: +39 (0)933 29546
Cell.: +39 339 8638049
Email: lorenzobellassai@gmail.com