Winter rains in May were followed by a week of sunshine in early August that arrived just in time for the early stone-fruit blossom, and agronomists predict that the favourable conditions will provide an exceptional harvest.

If the good weather continues, the Orange River Region could break last year's record with an estimated 16 million cartons – 2m more than last year.

Charl Stander of Capespan's Stonefruit Unit says that final quantities will very much depend on what happens over the next couple of months, but he said:'We have seen a very even blossom with the early varieties, although the blossom was slightly later than usual due to the cold weather. We are very optimistic.' If the long-term weather forecasts are anything to go by, then success looks guaranteed. Sarel Joubert, marketing manager of Capespan Grapes Ltd said: 'We believe that the season will be earlier, commencing around week 45. This will assist us greatly to supply the pre-Christmas market.' And with apple and pear expectations already exceeded, Bennie Smit of Capespan's Pome Unit was optimistic: 'It's been the best for the past five years.'

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