Autumn grapes between challenges and new perspectives

The 2025 grape campaign in Apulia is entering its most intense phase, and the Grappolo Rosso farm, led by Asia Grilli, is presenting a wide range of high-quality grapes. The year was not an easy one: things were not straightforward at first, as the produce did not ripen at the same time, followed by a month of August characterised by a drop in demand. "Many consumers in northern European markets were on holiday, and demand did not keep up with supply. This forced an adjustment of the prices, which were lower than last year," reports Grilli.

Despite these difficulties, the campaign is supported by favourable weather conditions. "The cool nights and the absence of diseases have made it possible to harvest healthy and well-presented grapes, a decisive element in a context of high competition. Spain, which had been weaker in 2024, made a greater impact this year with a substantial offer, while Turkey had to deal with weather problems that limited its presence on the markets. As the autumn progresses, however, Spain will draw its season to a close, and this will leave room for Italy, which can count on a longer calendar and internationally-appreciated varieties."

The company is busy harvesting seeded and seedless grapes, ranging from white to red and black. Kelly and Autumn King represent the seedless white offer, while Crimson, Allison, and Scarlett Royal form part of the seedless red segment. Next to these, the seeded tradition remains a mainstay thanks to Italia, Red Globe, Black Pearl, and Pizzutella, which are mainly destined to the domestic market. "Appearance and flavour are more important than ever because, in a time of abundance, customers always choose what looks best. Recently, the company was also certified to market Uva Italia with the PGI mark."

Alongside the production and commercial dynamics, Grilli also raises an alarm related to the risk of fraud against operators. In recent months, in fact, attempts have been made by individuals who pretended to be solid companies to obtain goods without paying. "It is possible to see the danger signs: excessively generic orders, requests for delivery to locations other than the official ones, or a lack of formal documents should trigger attention. It is not enough to check that a company is insurable: We need caution, cross-checks, and, when possible, word of mouth between operators. It is better to carry out more checks than to end up with heavy losses."

With this experience and with an eye on the future, Grappolo Rosso is preparing for Fruit Attraction. Madrid is a strategic appointment: it is a smaller fair compared to Berlin, but capable of offering visibility and valuable contacts. The company will be present in Hall 4, Stand 4E05 with its Mielosà line and its entire range of seasonal grapes. "We are presenting ourselves with enthusiasm and a desire to strengthen existing relationships and explore new collaborations. Taking part represents not only a business opportunity, but also a moment of direct confrontation with an international market that looks closely at Italian quality."

For more information:
Asia Grilli
+39 348 3893746
Az. Agr. Grappolo Rosso Soc. Agr. a R. L.
Via Contrada Scarciulli, 16
70017 Putignano (BA) - Italy
[email protected]
www.grappolorosso.com