How is the new grape season shaping up this year in Greece? How have the conditions been?
George Frangistas: The winter was warm and dry, while spring compensated marginally with a couple of showers, so volumes are expected to be slightly lower than last year’s crop. We had concerns in early May, but flowering went very well and subsequent development has been particularly encouraging. Harvesting is expected to start somewhat earlier than the usual mid-August.
What is the qualityof the crop looking like?
GF: With continued favorable weather conditions, we expect superb quality, with the odd tight bunch here and there.Price is too soon to speculate on, but assuming a smooth transition from Egypt to Spain to Greece, and no weather-related surprises, we can expect last year’s price level.
Are you growing any new varieties?
GF: Due to fragmentation both at the growing and the marketing level, changes are difficult to come by in Greece.Nevertheless, circumstances are just right and several varietal development efforts are underway.It is too soon for any major declaration, but keep an eye on Greece – you may soon be surprised.
Which markets are showing the most promise?
GF: Northern Hemisphere seedless grapes traditionally sell in northwestern Europe, including in the UK, Benelux, Germany and Scandinavia.However, central European markets seem to be developing a taste for the fruit, with buying power to match.
What are the main trends at the moment?
GF: The trend across Europe has been, for several years already, solely about lowering prices.This relentless trend is clearly detrimental to quality and taste and is particularly frustrating to suppliers of a top variety such as Greek Thompson Seedless.
How is austerity affecting business?
GF: Running a business in a country besieged by economic disfunction for many years is particularly hard.Austerity and capital controls are the norm, but what makes things almost unbearable is the unpredictability and instability at every level: political, economic and fiscal.
