“Some grapes are crossing the Mexican border into the US now, but volume is very limited,” says Jason Fuller with Sun World International. The volume of crossings earlier in the season will increase in the coming years as new plantings come into production. “The fruit sets look good at this point, which should give retailers optimum volumes to promote Mexican grapes from mid-May through the end of June.”
Overall, Mexico is expected to have more volume than reported in 2016. The official estimate is at 17.9 million boxes of grapes, up from 16.9 million last year. However, many believe that number is low. “Weather will obviously be the driver of how much of the fruit gets harvested. This season will see more volume of newer varieties, especially in the green grapes. There will be some red, but less variance there with the overwhelming majority being flames,” shared Fuller.
Coachella starts up later
In California’s Coachella Valley, the early fruit is later than expected due to lower than normal temperatures in the past 30-45 days. As a result, production will start in the second week of May. The June harvest time frame looks strong and promotable volumes are expected to be available as of then. “Overall volumes are expected to remain steady from last year, possibly slightly less,” mentioned Fuller.
New out of Coachella this year, Sun World will carry AUTUMNCRISP® brand grapes and Ivory - both are green seedless. Additional red and green varieties are being tested in a small way to see how they perform in the region’s growing conditions. “These new varieties typically have better yield, size, flavor and timing,” mentioned Fuller. The company continues to expand its proprietary program in both Coachella and Mexico, including existing varietal brands MIDNIGHT BEAUTY®, AUTUMNCRISP®, ADORA SEEDLESS® and SABLE SEEDLESS®.
For more information:
Jason Fuller
Sun World International
Tel: 661-392-5000