Although the 2023 campaign for French grapes has already begun, the official start of the famous Muscat AOC has just been announced. The season promises "high quality with good volumes", as Eric Godard Durand of Agence Laparra explains. "There may be some variations due to small sizes, yet it's still too early to tell". Another eagerly-awaited August arrival is the emblematic Chasselas de Moissac from the southwest, which came in a little early this year. Other varieties such as Danlas and Crimson are available, and Lavallée is just around the corner.
For the 2023 campaign as a whole, "growers are very optimistic in terms of quality: it's going to be a good campaign", continues Eric. Italy is not to be outdone, with its reference variety Italia, already available on the French market, also expected to shine this season.
On the retail side, "we're a little worried about the heat and the demand. The situation has been rather difficult for some summer fruits. We hope it will be different for grapes".
The popularity of seedless varieties continues
We're also making way for seedless varieties, "with Centennial starting up as well". As Eric has observed over the years, seedless grapes "are becoming increasingly popular with retailers", especially as they are very popular with young people. This trend has not been overlooked by Italy, a "major player" in the sector, which is also seeking to consolidate its position in the seedless grape niche.
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Eric Godard Durand
Agence Laparra
