Present challenges demand innovation, according to Rafi Karniel, CEO and chairman of Grapa Varieties, whose grapes aim for both excellent taste and high resilience to extreme weather
Rafi, what are the most important developments as we head into 2025?
Rafi Karniel: The grape industry faces climate volatility, geopolitical shifts and economic uncertainty. At Grapa, we see these challenges as opportunities to innovate. Our Arra breeding programme focuses on developing resilient, resource-efficient grape varieties.
The disruptions caused by heatwaves in the Northern Hemisphere, followed by delayed shipments from Peru this year, underscored the importance of early-season varieties. Grapa’s Arra selections, such as the earliest white, red, and black grape trio, have consistently outperformed in these scenarios. Early harvests from Namibia and South Africa, aided by airfreight, ensure retailers’ shelves remain stocked even during challenging times.
In regions where water shortages loom as a major threat, our early Arra varieties offer a unique advantage. Their shorter growing cycles use up to 50 per cent less water, and this is something which makes them ideal for regions where water conservation is critical.
What impact would you say the Arra breeding programme has had?
RK: It has revolutionised the industry. Just look at standout varieties like Arra Honey Pop, the earliest new-generation white grape. These varieties require less water, fewer pesticides and less labour, while maintaining excellent flavour and resilience to extreme weather, making them a favourite among growers, retailers and consumers alike.
Arra varieties are adaptable to diverse climates, allowing us to expand into markets like India and China. In India, where 80 per cent of vineyards grow Thompson Seedless, there is strong demand for more resilient alternatives, creating significant growth potential for our varieties.
Our varieties thrive in over 30 countries, including Brazil, India, and China. In Brazil, 80 per cent of grapes are consumed locally, while in India, it’s even higher. We’re building partnerships with leaders like Sahyadri Farms (India) and Joy Wing Mau (China) to enhance market reach and sustainability.
As you look ahead to the coming year, are you optimistic about the future of the grape category?
RK: The resilience of our genetics and the global expansion of our varieties position us for sustained growth. Grapa’s commitment ensures we remain a leader in the table grape industry, and guarantees a bright outlook for the category as a whole. The Arra varieties are designed to withstand extreme weather, optimise water use and reduce the environmental footprint of table grape production, helping growers thrive even amid uncertainty.
