Grape promise for veteran growers: Leading grape producers in the Hex and Orange River Valleys claim South Africa has a very bright future ahead as new seedless varieties come online

摘要

On the eve of a six-month grape harvest in the picturesque Hex River Valley, well-respected grape grower Anton Viljoen claims things are looking good as always. "It is the irrepressible nature of our business," Mr Viljoen comments. "The dams are full,the winter was good with lots of snow falling in the Hex River, so crop set is good this season." Mr Viljoen claims the past season has been a good one, with high yields and a favourable exchange rate. "Last season brought renewed confidence to the industry," he explains. "However, we are concerned about costs since we have witnessed double-digit increases in packaging, fuel and electricity costs year after year," he explains.