Top Brass optimistic for 2025 California table grape season
Top Brass optimistic for 2025 California table grape season
Top Brass Produce, which handles all aspects of its table grape production, from harvesting through sales, is optimistic for this season’s crop as California’s Central Valley harvest starts.
Weather conditions during the development of the crop have been favorable, with a relatively mild spring transitioning into summer, creating an ideal environment for table grapes, said April Myers, president of sales at Top Brass, Bakersfield, CA.
“We are ready for another amazing California table grape season,” Myers said. “Top Brass is supported by the incredible Vignolo family and an experienced team in all areas of the business. This team has been providing excellent service and fruit to our customers for four generations and we’re excited for the 2025 table grape season.”
Ted Vignolo planted his first crop of cotton in central California in 1938, later branching out into produce, including table grapes and organic potatoes. All of the Top Brass vineyards are in the San Joaquin Valley.
The fourth-generation farm will start the season with seedless red Flames, green Ivory grapes and Sweet Bond black grapes.
Myers said these varieties are highly anticipated by Top Brass customers, who are eager to supply quality California grapes to markets around the globe. The company prides itself on a “gold standard in terms of quality and service in the Central Valley,” she said.
“We have built a strong reputation for delivering exceptional produce, thanks to our unwavering attention to detail and the dedication of our family-run vineyard,” Myers said.
The California Table Grape Commission has estimated this season’s crop will meet or exceed the 91.5 million 19-pound boxes produced in 2024.
“This projection highlights the region’s best-in-class table grape-growing industry and the commitment of growers to upholding high standards in both quality and yield,” Myers said.
Each season presents a set of challenges and cost pressures, and this year is no exception, with rising costs on packaging and concerns of labor availability, she said.
“Still, our team has a strong plan in place and remains committed to overcoming these hurdles,” Myers said. “Whether it’s addressing labor needs, managing pests and diseases, or adapting to market demands, we are steadfast in our efforts to provide a seamless buying and selling experience.
“Our goal is to uphold the high standards our valued customers have come to expect and ensure the success of another Central Valley table grape season,” she said.
Top Brass supplies California table grapes from July into November.
