The California raisin type variety grape forecast is 2.6 million tons, up 19 percent from last year. Based on the objective measurement survey, there are 40.3 bunches per vine compared to 32.9 recorded in 1996. Bunch length, width, and thickness are up. Thompson Seedless variety grapes are currently being picked for fresh use in the San Joaquin Valley.
Maturity is well ahead of schedule.
Harvest for wine and raisin use will begin by mid-August. The Raisin Administrative Committee provided funding for the 1997 Raisin Objective Measurement Survey. The collection of objective measurement data on the California grape crop began in 1956. Grape bunches were counted, measured and weighed in sample vineyards of raisin, table and wine type varieties. No Grape OM Survey was conducted from 1982 through 1984 due to State budget cuts.