California grape harvest continues through December

The California Table Grape Commission, that maintains and expands markets for fresh California grapes, apprises the harvest of table grapes continues in the San Joaquin Valley, approaching the December conclusion.

Kathleen Nave, president of the Commission, said autumn is a great time of year for California grape harvest. “The vineyards are full of fruit, the mornings are cool and the afternoons are sunny and warm but not hot.” Nave shared that many of the new grapes varieties were bred for harvest in the fall.

Nearly 50 percent of the California grape volume, according Nave, is shipped to consumers from October to January, which makes Californian grapes a very autumn and early winter fruit.

Kathleen Nave also shared California has dominated December grape sales for many years and this season is no different, so grape growers in other countries should not suggest that production in California will fall short of what is needed to supply the US market until December. “Promotion work with retailers and conversations with consumers through social media and advertising in multiple mediums are moving ahead full speed to support the promotable volumes of November and December and support the wrap-up in January,” she concluded.

The California Table Grape Commission was established in 1967. The commission has been affirmed through grower referenda every five years since its inception.  The purpose of the commission is to maintain and expand markets for fresh California grapes and to create new and larger markets within the state, interstate and internationally. More than 90 grape varieties are growing in California in three colors: green, red and black, which are in season from May to January. These many varieties offer a range of sizes, shapes, flavors and textures that vary widely even while the color may be the same.

More information about California grapes on the Commission’s website.