California’s table grape industry is preparing for one of its earliest harvests in recent years, with growers reporting vineyards are running roughly two weeks ahead of last season following favorable weather conditions. Harvesting is expected to begin in the Arvin district of Kern County next week, with most growers across the San Joaquin Valley entering production by late June, according to industry estimates. Growers project the 2026 crop at approximately 96 million boxes, with early reports indicating strong fruit size and quality. Philippe Markarian of Mirabella Farms told FreshPlaza that vineyards are about 14 to 16 days ahead of last year, while other industry sources have reported similar advances due to warm spring weather. Growers say favorable growing conditions and adequate water supplies have supported vine health and crop development. Demand is expected to remain strong as retailers transition from imported grapes to domestic supplies. Industry officials say lower freight costs compared with imports from Mexico and South America could support movement and pricing. Growers are also monitoring weather forecasts later in the season, including the potential effects of El Niño conditions on production in California and competing grape-producing regions.
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