The independent growers of the Marco de Jerez have long been calling
for a fair price for their grapes, as the current 0.36€/kg,
the cheapest in Spain, is completely unsustainable. Since no grower
is making a profit there can be no investment in updating or maintaining machinery
or replanting vineyards, save for replacing sick or dead vines. Furthermore the
next generation sees no future in growing vines other than those for the table
wine sector which is taking off, and at profitable prices but reducing the amount of grapes available for Sherry. According to the grower´s
association Asevi-Asaja 0.45€/kg (a 125% increase) is the mínimum price
required or vineyards will simply be abandoned. Thankfully, the president of
the Consejo Regulador, Beltrán Domecq shares this view saying that
the grape price must increase and has called on growers, bodegas and
cooperatives to work out a deal to establish reasonable prices and guarantee the
future of the Marco de Jerez. Let us hope his words have the desired effect.
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