U.S. Grape Harvest Sinks 14%

WASHINGTON - Aug 11/06 - SNS -- U.S. grape production is forecast at 6.72 million tons, down 14% from 2005 but 8% above 2004, according to the USDA's latest crop production estimates.

California leads the U.S. in grape production with 90% of the total. Washington and New York are the next largest producing States, with 5% and 2%, respectively. California's all grape forecast, at 6.04 million tons, is up 1% from the July forecast but 13% below 2005. Washington growers expect to harvest 350,000 tons, down 16% from a year ago. New York's forecast, at 160,000 tons, is 10% below last year.

California's wine type grape production is expected to total 3.20 million tons, 53% of California's total grape crop. The production forecast for wine type varieties is unchanged from July but 16% below 2005. Wine grape growers report quality looks excellent as vines reach the final stages of development. However, a July heat wave stopped berry growth. These smaller grapes provide more intense flavor which is favorable to the palate.

California's raisin type grape production is forecast at 2.05 million tons, 34% of California's total grape crop. Production of raisin varieties is unchanged since last month but down 11% from a year ago. Harvest of raisin type grapes for fresh use was underway in the San Joaquin Valley. Berry set is light which has increased berry size. Thompson Seedless and Zante Currant were among the varieties being harvested.

Production of table type grapes is forecast at 790,000 tons, 5% above the July 1 forecast but down 9% from 2005. Table type grapes account for 13% of California's total grape crop. Table type grapes for fresh use were harvested in the San Joaquin Valley and harvest in the Coachella Valley is complete. Flame Seedless and Black Emerald were among the varieties harvested.

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