US (CA): Grape prices could increase

Table grape production in the southern part of California is winding down, and with light volumes of green varieties from Mexico, prices have been strong. Good volumes from the central part of the state are expected in a couple of weeks, so prices could increase toward the end of the month.

“With Mexico finishing up early and Coachella winding down, there is good demand,” said Jim Llano of Castle Rock Vineyards. “There's been good movement, particularly for green varieties, and there will be a bit of a shortage until we get volume from the northern areas.” On June 17, prices for an 18-pound container of Sugar Ones were between $18.95 and $24.95 out of the Coachella Valley, and prices for a container of Flame Seedless were between $14.95 and $20.95.

This is the second year of commercial availability for Castle Rock's Green Envy, which is the green seedless variety that Castle Rock will produce during the window for the Thompson Seedless. In the red category, Castle Rock will also offer the Sweet Celebration. It's varieties like those that makes Llano believe it's an exciting time for the table grape industry, despite ongoing challenges posed by limited water allocations due the state-wide drought.

“In the short term, there is optimism about the markets because of good prices from a gap in greens,” said Llano. “But there are also new varieties that are well-suited to the domestic market in color, flavor and brix. This is a developing situation we have with varieties, messaging and education focused on consumer preferences. The industry is going through changes with varieties and being consumer-centric in its approach to marketing and developing new varieties.”

For more information:

Jim Llano

+1 661 721 8717