The Sicilian table grape sector recorded a positive trend for the Victoria seeded variety. Attention now turns to the harvesting of Italia grapes. "The Victoria seeded grape season is drawing to a close with decidedly positive results. Product quality was excellent, as was commercialisation both in Italy and abroad. We are now focusing on harvesting Italia, another "historical" medium-late white grape variety that is much appreciated for its sweetness," reported Domenico Fisicaro, president of OPI Sicula, outlining the trend of Sicilian table grapes.
© OPI SICULA O.P. SOC. COOP. AGR.
At the same time, the harvesting of seedless grape varieties, both white and black, is continuing until the end of the season. These types are registering positive sales and consumption data, consolidating new market trends. OPI Sicula, a cooperative created from the aggregation of several agricultural companies in eastern Sicily, represents 112 members, including 70 companies and 14 companies of agricultural producers, managing a total of approximately 745 hectares. The member companies, many of which are located in the area of the PGI Uva da Tavola di Mazzarrone, use certifications and modern equipment to guarantee sustainable production.
© OPI SICULA O.P. SOC. COOP. AGR.
The first phase of the campaign saw Sicily stand out on the market thanks to the earliness of its table grapes. Market dynamics then changed from 15 July, with the arrival of the Apulian Victoria grapes on the shelves. Sales slowed down until mid-August during the typical holiday period, before showing a more dynamic recovery in the last week. The Italia grape campaign started on 25 August, with expectations for quotations to remain positive, although at a different level compared to the seedless varieties. This variety also has specific characteristics to be considered when it comes to management and marketing.
© OPI SICULA O.P. SOC. COOP. AGR.Carmelo Giarracca, agronomist and vice-president of OPI Sicula.
With regard to the Italia variety, significant yields are expected. "As far as the Italia grape is concerned," explains Carmelo Giarracca, agronomist and vice-president of OPI Sicula, "a campaign characterised by fairly high yields of 30/35 tonnes/hectare is expected, whose volumes are therefore higher than in the previous campaign. We are talking about a quality grape, which stands out for its crispness and high sugar content, as well as its straw colour. On the other hand, there are some difficulties from a phytosanitary point of view due to the high level of humidity in the last week. Overall, the volumes of Italian grapes this year will be in line with those of the 2024 campaign and therefore probably not sufficient to meet consumption until November.
© OPI SICULA O.P. SOC. COOP. AGR.
Domenico Fisicaro highlighted the different market preferences. "Traditional grape varieties are more in demand in the Italian general markets. Large retailers, especially foreign ones, prefer seedless grapes because consumers, both in Italy and abroad, respond well to this innovation. Seedless grapes are also popular due to the greater texture of the berries. This characteristic allows high resistance during transport. The earliness of table grapes grown in Sicily represents a significant competitive advantage, as it allows them to anticipate the production of other geographical areas, such as Egypt and Southern Europe, positioning them in a niche market."
© OPI SICULA O.P. SOC. COOP. AGR.
For more information:
Semmy Fisicaro
OPI Sicula O.P. Soc. Coop. Agr.
Head office: C/da Pezzagrande sn
96013 Pedagaggi - Carlentini (SR)
Head office: Viale del lavoro, 5
95040 Mazzarrone (CT)
+39 333 2049786 / +39 333 3211296
[email protected]
www.opusicula.it