Food & Farm News

» July 13, 2011 «

Grapes endure difficult weather

The year's first forecast of California grape production shows the crop could nearly equal last year's … despite rain, hail and cold temperatures that have affected the crop.  The forecast shows the total grape crop down about 1 percent, because of a predicted 6 percent drop in winegrape production. But the table grape crop could increase 9 percent, with raisin production up 6 percent. After the cool spring, the grape crop is running one to two weeks behind schedule.

Almond consumption goes nuts

With almond production expected to break records again this year, marketers say they expect to be able to sell all that California farmers produce.  The latest estimate found that farmers will have 19 percent larger yields, compared with last year, and could produce nearly 2 billion pounds of almonds. Marketers say demand for almonds remains strong, with international markets playing a key role. European sales are increasing, and there has been growing demand from China and India.

Plantings rise for carrots, other vegetables

If the weather cooperates, expect to see more California-grown carrots, cauliflower, sweet corn and lettuce on the market this summer. Acreage for all those crops increased for the summer quarter, according to a new crop report. Carrots saw the largest rise in acreage, up 20 percent from the same time last year. Plantings of other California-grown fresh vegetables have stayed stable or decreased slightly, according to the report.

'Virtual tasting' promotes wine

With the help of technology, California wineries are promoting their wines to Chinese consumers.  The Wine Institute has been holding virtual tasting events to boost media attention in China and increase demand for imported wine. The “Discover California Wines” campaign began last month and runs through July. The campaign uses video conferencing tools, so that the winemakers in California can describe the wines as the participants in China taste them.