Blackcurrant harvest begins two weeks early

The UK blackcurrant harvest has begun two weeks early and in the counties of Herefordshire and Gloucestershire for the first time.

Eastern counties of Kent and East Anglia are typically where the early harvest begins, as growers report changing regional growing patterns.

The first fruit was picked on 25 June with strong crop quality and higher than expected yields, despite recent “scorching” temperatures. Last year’s wet conditions led to vigorous growth and allowed plants to survive this year’s low rainfall.

“This year’s spring brought more sunshine hours than the whole of 2024.That helped ensure a strong fruit set and a high sugar level in the fruit,” said Jo Hilditch, chair of the Blackcurrant Foundation.

“The winter provided sufficient chill hours to support even bud break, resulting in a consistently ripening crop, which is ideal for quality. But the ongoing water stress challenged growers across the country.

“The recent intense summer heat has been scorching and tiring for the fruit and the pickers alike. Thanks to the vigorous growth from last year’s wet conditions and strategic use of irrigation, we’ve come through with an excellent crop.”

A highlight of the season has been two new varieties – Ben Lui and Ben Macdui – bred for climate resilience by the James Hutton Institute in partnership with Suntory Beverage & Food GB&I, owner of Ribena.

“Seeing Ben Lui and Ben Macdui deliver such strong results in a challenging season is incredibly encouraging,” said Harriet Prosser, agronomist at Suntory. “These varieties were bred with climate volatility in mind, and this year has really tested them. Their performance reinforces the value of long-term R&D and our commitment to future-proofing blackcurrant production in the UK.”

Over 90 per cent of all British-grown blackcurrants go into making Ribena, with the rest of the crop going into frozen berries, cordials, jams, and craft beverages.