Hot grape market

Grape marketing conditions are very competitive now, with Mexico, Coachella and the San Joaquin Valley in production.

One Fresno area grape shippers notes that the Bakersfield Arvin region has been going strong since last week. Flame seedless promotions from California's central valley will heat up this month, and quotes now for the nicer fruit is $12 to 14 per lug.

One of the issues for suppliers this week will be temperatures forecast at near 107 to 110 degrees. Harvest crews will have to quit work by noon to avoid the heat, which could crimp the supply somewhat.