The Uva di Mazzarrone IGP (Protected Geographical Indication PGI "Grape of Mazzarrone") harvest campaign started a few days late, but the outlook is promising, according to Gianni Raniolo, president of the consortium (pictured on the right). Despite the unstable weather in Sicily at the beginning of May, including an unexpected cold snap, the situation has stabilized.
"The weather conditions have improved, and the Brix degrees are good," Raniolo says. "Black Magic, one of the traditional black varieties, has reached 15-16 degrees Brix, and the white Victoria variety is similarly high. Even the first white seedless grapes have an appealing sugar content."
The harvest is now in full swing, and the first batches have begun arriving on the market. "Initially, the product was intended for specialized markets in Italy and other countries," Raniolo explains. "Recently, however, we have also started supplying large-scale distribution in Italy and abroad.
From a commercial point of view, the signs are encouraging. Production prices are positive, with an increase of 10 to 20 percent compared to last year," says the president of the consortium. This reflects the quality of the grapes and the growing demand, especially in European markets."
Another significant trend is the evolution of grape varieties. Even in Sicily, we are seeing a gradual shift towards seedless grapes. "About 20 percent of the area has been reconverted, and we expect more growth, even in the later stages of the season," Raniolo adds. This trend is a response to consumer demand for innovation and the need to remain competitive in international markets.
The Uva di Mazzarrone IGP is preparing for an encouraging season on several fronts, thanks to its excellent quality and increasingly selective market. Despite the uncertain weather conditions at the beginning of the season, the signs are positive.
For more information:
Giovanni Raniolo
+39 335 1033575
Consorzio di Tutela dell'Uva da Tavola di Mazzarrone IGP (Consortium for the Protection of the "Table Grape of Mazzarrone" PGI)
Via P. Umberto, 194
95040 Mazzarrone (CT) - Italy
+39 0933 944 763
[email protected]
[email protected]
www.uvadimazzarroneigp.it