Weather conditions and harvest prospects in Southern Tyrol

Tyrol.

Bozen, June 17. The fine month of May has lived up to its reputation this time. We have had the most delightful days in southern Tyrol. In contrast, June has so far been unsettled, mostly overcast, damp and cold, and rainy. The rapid change in weather may have caused some damage to the grapevines, yet grapes remain present in immense quantities, and we may confidently look forward to a very bountiful harvest. Old wines are consequently falling in price, ours most of all, which are in any case too heavy and too deeply colored, hence seeing little export and being consumed mostly within the town itself. In the taverns, the finest varieties, which recently fetched 12 kr., are offered at 10 and 8 kr. per Vienna measure, and everyone must be glad to clear out the old supply soon, as there might be a shortage of the necessary vessels at harvest time, and also because there is good reason to fear that the noble juice will be worth little next year. Unfortunately, we may soon no longer be able to withstand competition from the neighboring Etschland region, most of whose locations yield light, sound, flavorful varieties that are easiest to transport and keep the longest. The harvest of silk cocoons has also turned out extraordinarily rich here in the south, as in Italy. We will likewise suffer no shortage of grain, and any attempt to drive prices up is futile. At the last grain market, wheat was paid at 2 fl. 24 kr. per staro. We owe this low price, however, solely and exclusively to our Italian neighbors, who diligently and abundantly supply us with their surplus.