The table grape season started with encouraging signs for the 'La Bella Assai' winery in Mazzarrone (CT), one of Sicily's symbolic production areas. Harvesting operations began on 3 May, with high-quality yields and an already positive market response.
Antonio Bellassai, owner of the company, reports that: "We had an early start that exceeded expectations. The product has excellent quality parameters: high Brix level, homogeneity, and excellent ripening. We are pleased."
The early varieties - Victoria (white) and Black Magic (black) - officially kicked off the campaign. According to Bellassai, the above-average level of quality is the result of favourable climatic conditions: a balanced spring and a sunny early summer, without excesses.
Bella Assai is present on the markets from May to December thanks to a capillary organisation covering over 300 cultivated hectares, divided between estates and external growers. The plants, either in greenhouses or under covers, guarantee a continuous and diversified production. The division between seeded and seedless varieties is currently 50%, a distribution that reflects the evolution in consumption, while keeping the demand for traditional varieties stable.
"We are continuously expanding our variety portfolio with a focus on seedless grapes, but all varieties are performing well at the moment. The market will decide what it prefers."
On the commercial front, the company manages a balanced distribution between Italy and abroad, with an established presence in key markets such as France, Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands. "Demand is strong and, in some cases, higher than availability. We are working hard to ensure punctual and constant supplies."
One of the company's strengths is its versatility when it comes to packaging: "We have 5 or 7 kg boxes and a wide range of trays, which allow us to readily adapt to the specific needs of big retailers in Europe."
Investments in logistics and future prospects
Among the most strategic developments in 2025 is the move to a new logistics hub. "We are ready to operate in a larger and more efficient warehouse, which will optimise processing, packaging, and shipping. An investment designed to support growth and improve our responsiveness to market demands," Bellassai concludes.
With a campaign that started off on the right foot and favourable weather conditions, La Bella Assai is looking forward to the current year. The goal is clear: to consistently offer top table grapes, with a service that meets the expectations of Italian and European customers.
For more information:
Antonio Bellassai
+39 347 2804108
La Bella Assai Srl
Via Principe Umberto 115
95040 Mazzarrone (CT) - Italy
[email protected]
www.labellaassai.it