The Harvest season is moving along in the Southern Hemisphere. Reports on volume are mixed, as Chile expects to have rebounded from a short 2014 crop, Argentina and New Zealand look to be down, and Australia and South Africa seem to be holding steady. Quality looks good in most regions, with some issues reported in selected markets. Bulk wine volume is balanced to slightly long in many Southern Hemisphere markets, but sales activity has been brisk in recent weeks.

In the Northern Hemisphere, the French market continues to be very active, with prices holding firm on most varieties. Prosecco and Pinot Grigio sales have been strong from Italy and the falling Euro has helped with exports to the United States. California reports sufficient inventory for most items, and the continuing drought remains high on growers’ lists of concerns. The bulk market has picked up pace in California and older inventory is beginning to disappear.

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