Follow-up: 2009 grape purchases by Catalan wineries

Further news on expected grape purchases by the three leading winery groups in Catalunya:

Of the big three, only Codorníu has committed to supporting local grape growers this year by holding prices at 2008 and annoucing intentions to buy 10% this year over last.

Freixenet will be maintain volume, but at a lower price, citing increased worldwide competition and a drop in wine consumption due to the economic crisis.

Torres will hold prices at 2008 levels, but will stick with their previously announced plans to lower purchase volumes: -30 to -50% less for red wine grapes and -15% to -30% for white.

The Catalan Department of Agriculture, Food and Rural Support (DAR) has stated that the crisis appears to be having a greater negative effect on still wines than on sparkling Cava