UK: Tarragon in short supply

Tarragon is hot property in the UK at the moment, supplies are limited if not non-existent. The shortage is of course being blamed on the weather. Israel, one of the main producers at this time of year has had freak weather conditions with cold dull days and unseasonal rain. Spain has experienced similar weather as has Columbia.

Alison Dodd from Herbs Unlimited explained that this is situation is, "most unusual" chefs are not accustomed to having to do without the herb. As Alison explained it is a difficult herb to substitute.

Tarragon is a seasonal herb and cannot be replenished quickly. Simon Coles from Westlands Nurseries said prices just now are around £10 per kg (€12) and the normal price during the UK season is £7.50 (€9), not exceptionally high, the bigger problem is availability.

According to Alison normally she would be receiving around 100kg a week at this time of the year, but last week she got nothing and today just 15kg. Even the big retailers have none in stock.

But things are looking up, supplies from Israel and Spain are beginning to pick up again and the UK will start in two weeks.