August 18 2006, 11:36

Crimean grape growers confirm the worst forecast for the harvest 2006

Grape harvesting started early August in AR Crimea. However, major farms do not hope for a great harvest. The reason for it is winter frost which severely damaged vineyards on the whole territory of the peninsula. Such frost-resistant varieties as Lora and Arkadia can stand frosts down to -28 Co ; but they were damaged thirty-degree frost.

According to information provided by Mr. Y. Kalin, the Agronomist of "Agro-Yukos" LLC, fruit buds were frost killed in his farm and generally in the Republic. Bunches were formed on this year sprouts. In such cases grape ripening is delayed, and the harvest can be expected to be not more than 10-15% of the planned volumes.

Vineyards on Eastern and Southern coasts of Black sea are in better climatic conditions. Shipments of table and wine grape are supplied on market out of those regions. Wholesale grape price is $1.37-2.35/kg - this price is actually twice as high comparing to the retail price for grape observed at the same period of time past year.