Despite weather-related issues faced by several other crops throughout the state, California’s shallots have had a strong, stable year in 2015.“Our planting went well this year,” says Patsy Ross of Christopher Ranch, a garlic and shallots supplier based out of Gilroy, CA. Christopher Ranch operates a year-round shallots program, selling fresh and peeled product out of storage after an annual fall harvest. Yields this year were strong, according to Ross, who adds that, so far, Christopher Ranch’s supplies have held steady with demand. “Our 2015 crop [has been] good.”
Unaffected by unusual conditions
Ross says that despite unusual weather and growing conditions in California – including water shortages, warm El Nino temperatures, and recent cold snaps – Christopher Ranch’s shallots were largely unaffected this year. “The drought did not have a huge effect on our shallot crops this year,” Ross says. “We work very hard to secure water for all of our crops prior to planting.”
She adds, “Only time will tell about the recent cold, but often a cold winter helps the plants create more vigor and do well later.”
Demand stable, strong
Stable supply levels have ensured that Christopher Ranch will be able to meet strong seasonal demand for the holidays. “Shallots tend to move well during the holidays and winter months,” says Ross, noting that shallots are “ideal for winter braises, roasts and gratins.”
Ross says that demand is strong now, and should hold steady through the rest of the holiday season. “Expectations are that demand for shallots will remain strong through the end of the year and into winter.”
For more information:
Patsy Ross
Christopher Ranch
Tel: +1 (408) 847-1100