When you envision your trip to wine country, do you see yourself wading in a barrel of grapes, feeling them crush between your toes as you stomp around? While grape stomping was once the way of the winemaking world, the majority of winemakers today use machines instead of manual labor. But, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a relaxing, fun afternoon of grape stomping in Napa Valley while sipping on a glass of your favorite crushed grapes. Don’t worry, you won’t be drinking the wine you stomp on!
I think we’ll leave the official winemaking to the pros for now, but grape stomping is a fun activity to experience while visiting Napa Valley during the harvest season.
What is Grape Stomping?
I’ve heard it said that grape stomping is the stick shift of the wine world. Ha! While most wineries now use machines to produce their wine, grape stomping is a traditional process that has been used in winemaking around the world for thousands of years. Also known as pigeage, grape stomping is the act of physically stomping on grapes to macerate them– in other words, break apart the skin and flesh to combine all the flavor compounds and tannins found in grapes.
In 2017, historians found 8,000 year old ceramic jars in Georgia revealing the earliest evidence of grape stomping. These ancient pieces of pottery contained remnants of wine compounds and were decorated with images of men crushing grapes with their feet. While this was an amazing revelation to find, there has also been historical evidence of wine making found across the world, including in Iran, China, and Armenia. Also, one of the earliest grape stomps on record occurred in Rome in the third century.
Our winemaking processes might be more advanced now, in the 20th century, but there’s something to be said for the grape stomping process that endured thousands of years and brought us the beloved wine that we enjoy so much!
Where to Go Grape Stomping in Napa Valley 2022
While grape stomping might not be common winemaking practice anymore, it still serves as a festive, unique experience in wine country. Unfortunately, there are few wineries that offer grape stomping in Napa Valley, but I’ve found a couple that do. And, I’ve even experienced grape stomping for myself at one of these wonderful wineries.
Grape stomping is a seasonal activity available during harvest season in Napa Valley. Harvest season usually runs from August to October, when grapes are at their peak ripeness. So, if you’re interested in grape stomping during your next wine country trip, be sure to plan within these months.
Enjoy a grape stomping experience at these Napa Valley wineries:
Grgich Hills
This year, you can enjoy your own grape stomping experience at Grgich Hills for a limited time. In addition to their Picnic Experience, you can also stomp your own grapes. During the stomp, you’ll enjoy a private party with your very own wine educator. Unfortunately, not everyone can participate in this grape stomping experience. You must be a Grgich Hills club member to book this activity. The cost is $50 per group. Register here!
I had the privilege of experiencing grape stomping at Grgich Hills for myself in 2018. Learn more about my amazing experience, here.
Conn Creek
The Great Grape Stomp of 2022 at Conn Creek is happening during harvest season. As one of two Napa valley wineries that offer a grape stomping experience, be sure to mark your calendars for September 25th. Conn Creek is offering two event times: 10:30 am and 1:30 pm. Per person, this unique experience costs $150 for non-members and $75 for club members. You’ll also have the opportunity to enjoy harvest-seasonal foods and your own grape stomping memento. Register here!
If grape stomping is on your bucket list, visit Grgich Hills or Conn Creek this Fall. Make sure to plan ahead when booking these experiences., You can find more grape stomping tips, here, to make your experience the best possible!
Happy Stomping!
Cheers, Raquel
