The harvesting campaign of the Italian black variety Maula grape started on 3 July, following its successful launch on the domestic and European markets in 2024.
This seedless cultivar is the result of a collaboration between CREA in Turi, Apulia, and the Italian consortium Nu.Va.U.T. Nuove Varietà di Uva da Tavola (New Table Grape Varieties). The consortium unites 23 Apulian companies interested in funding research on new seedless grape varieties. These companies were supplied with the first plants for field experimentation. Among them is Ermes, which has invested around five hectares in cultivating the Maula variety.
© Azienda Ermes
"The quantities produced this year are significantly larger than last year," says Tiziana Suglia of the Ermes sales office. "Currently, more than 70 hectares are in production, up from around 50 last year." Despite this increase, there has been a decline in new plantings this year. Areas dedicated to the Maula grape have decreased in favor of greater interest in Autumn Crisp plantings. Autumn Crisp was one of the most sought-after varieties in 2024, fetching high prices last season. However, new hectares and areas not yet in production are adding to the overall potential. We expect to finish the harvest around 25 July. Yields have increased by 10-15%. The harvest began approximately two weeks later than usual due to temperature fluctuations and unfavorable rainfall in April and May.
Most of the vineyards of this variety are concentrated in the provinces of Bari and Taranto in the Apulia region. This variety's distinctive characteristics include crisp, velvety black berries with a natural waxy bloom, low acidity, and bunches weighing about 500 grams and reaching 30 cm in length. The sugar content has been measured at 16° Brix, and the variety is known for its early ripening.
 © Azienda Ermes |  © Azienda Ermes |
Despite limited availability, the first exports have already begun, and sales are looking promising. Germany remains the main export market, with sales primarily occurring in the large-scale retail sector. Maula grapes are sold in various types of packaging, including 500-gram baskets, 5-kilogram cartons, and paper bags. It is a short but intense campaign, and the feedback from operators has been very positive so far. Quantities shipped will increase in the coming days.
For more information:
Ermes Company
V.le A. Dipierro, 2/4
70016 Noicattaro (Bari) - Italy
+39 335 697 3287
[email protected]
