The harvest of the famous organic Juliet apple is taking place in particularly great conditions this year. “We started harvesting the first fruit at the beginning of October when the sugar and starch regression rates indicated optimal ripeness. The harvest usually takes place in 2 or 3 rounds, and we are currently in the second round. The last apples will all be at the station by the end of October. The big advantage this year is that we are harvesting in summer conditions, with slightly cool mornings and nice sunny days, which forecasts that the apples will keep well,” explains Jean-Noël Carles, president of the association Les Amis de Juliet.
Slightly lower yields but very good quality
The first observations at the station allow us to refine our initial predictions for the current campaign. “We had predicted a harvest of marketable fresh apples reaching 14,000 tons, but we will probably obtain slightly lower yields, with smaller calibers than usual, due to the heatwaves of the summer. Luckily, the thinning advice was followed rather well so there is only a limited number of small calibers. In terms of taste, on the other hand, the sugar levels are excellent with a very nice color, which suggests a great year for the Juliet apple.”
Good start of the marketing season
The orchard conditions are great for the Juliet apples, and the marketing campaign is starting very well. “Although the market is a bit sluggish, the season is starting well. The arrival of the Juliet was highly anticipated and the demand was very good. The situation could change as the campaign progresses but for the moment, we are very satisfied.”
Popular apple on the export market
Nearly 65% of the Juliet harvest is sold in France, but this organic apple has also gained some popularity on the export markets. “We export a lot to Asia, Europe and Dubai. Customers abroad are seduced by the taste of this apple which can also withstand 3 to 4 weeks on a boat. It is very solid and keeps very well. Today, our clients in Southeast Asia trust us completely. They do not hesitate to renew their orders even if the boat has not arrived yet. They used to check the quality of the merchandise, which sometimes led to shortages between arrivals.”
Today, the Juliet apple, which has seduced consumers in France and abroad, continues to look for new markets to conquer.
