Stomping Grapes for Wine

Stomping Grapes for Wine is work, but nevertheless Dona Maria vineyard and some others continue the old method of stomping grapes for wine by foot trod rather than the modern mechanical means.  The reason?  There is a belief that foot trod crushing is softer on the grape seeds.  Often, mechanical means, not only crush the grapes, but can crush the seeds giving a less than favorable flavor to the wine.  Here is a video of the younger generation stomping the grapes for wine at the winery.

Every winery has their preference.  The smaller vineyards are more apt to use the foot trod method.  Have no worries, feet are thoroughly cleaned prior to stomping.  I had the experience of stomping, it actually was quite fun feeling the squish of grapes between my toes.  Stomping almost made me feel like I was Lucille Ball minus the Italian women stompers. If you are planning a trip to a vineyard, check and see if they allow visitors to stomp grapes. If you have healthy feet, give it a try.