The 2025/26 winter in Southern California was the warmest on record, and the result is an early bloom for table grapes in the San Joaquin Valley. Growers and shippers see the season starting two to three weeks earlier than usual.
Hronis Inc. of Delano, CA reports if the warm trend continues they could be harvesting grapes by the week of June 15. The grower/shipper notes other producers in the area and even stretching to Mexico are reporting similar sightings, with estimated harvest timelines varying by location.
Pandol Bros. of Delano, CA refers to communications among other area growers who indicate harvesting may be anywhere from 15 to 23 days early, but he’s cautious about such predictions. The harvest is still two months away and a lot can happen to affect it.
The Southern San Joaquin Valley starting the season at the end of June would still be early, as table grape picking typically starts around the first and second weeks of July.
If the season does get underway earlier this could extend the shipping season. Loadings typically last into December or January.