Early Morning Harvest: Turkish Grapes Head to Russia and Europe Amidst Intense Heat

Grape harvesters in Turkey's Buldan district have commenced their demanding season, picking the early-ripening Superior grape variety under challenging conditions. The work begins in the pre-dawn hours, often before 5 AM, to mitigate the effects of high temperatures, with laborers returning home by noon.

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Our vineyard has pruning, and then we cover the vines with nets. This year, the grapes are abundant and of high quality. Superior grapes are preferred by diabetics, dieters, and people with various ailments due to their low sugar content. We send them primarily to Russia, European countries, and all over Turkey. This year, the product is abundant and high quality. May God grant us a fruitful season.

Producers like Ramazan Uğuz, who practices conservation tillage in his vineyards, reported a bountiful and high-quality harvest this year. The Superior grape is particularly favored for its low sugar content, making it a popular choice for individuals managing diabetes, those on diets, or people with various health conditions. The grapes are destined for markets across Turkey, as well as for export to Russia and European countries.

However, the intense heat presents significant difficulties for the workers. Şengül Erdoğan, who travels from Alaşehir to Buldan for the harvest, described the arduous nature of the work. "Working in the heat is difficult," she stated, explaining their early start and midday finish. "We leave home at 03:30 in the morning and enter the vineyards around 05:00-06:00 to cut grapes. We finish work at 12:00 PM and return home. Our work is difficult in this heat. May God help us all."

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We leave home at 03:30 in the morning and enter the vineyards around 05:00-06:00 to cut grapes. We finish work at 12:00 PM and return home. Our work is difficult in this heat. May God help us all.

Grape buyers like Zafer Akdaş confirmed the strong demand for Buldan Superior grapes, noting their shipment to markets, bazaars, and wholesale centers in Istanbul. He echoed the sentiment of a plentiful and high-quality harvest this year, expressing hope for profitable sales. The early start and efficient processing are crucial for delivering the fresh grapes to consumers while navigating the summer heat.

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I ship the grapes I buy to markets, bazaars, and wholesale centers in Istanbul. This year, the grapes are abundant and of high quality. May God grant us good markets.