OSAKA - Grape-picking season has reached its peak at tourist farms in Kashiwara, Osaka Prefecture, where hot weather from spring through summer has produced particularly sweet, richly flavored fruit this year, although prolonged rain has reduced visitor numbers and could shorten the season.
Kashiwara is one of Osaka Prefecture's major grape-growing areas, with clusters of ripe fruit now filling local vineyards.
One farm began offering grape picking in mid-August, allowing visitors to compare around 20 varieties.
A farm representative said the favorable weather had resulted in grapes with a strong flavor and that the crop was currently in very good condition.
The ripeness of the grapes can be judged not only by the color of the fruit but also by the branches, which begin green and gradually turn brown as the grapes mature.
The fruit is now considered to be at its best, but rainy weather has led some customers to cancel their visits.
The farm said many people still come regardless of the weather and encouraged visitors to enjoy grape picking even on rainy days.
Grape picking is scheduled to continue until early October, although the period when visitors can enjoy a wide selection of varieties is expected to last only until around the end of September.
Farm operators said continued rain can damage the fruit more quickly, raising the possibility that this year's grape-picking season could end earlier than planned.
Source: Television OSAKA NEWS
