There are some iconic scenes in television history that revolve around grape stomping. Look back to the episode of “I Love Lucy,” where Lucy tries to prepare for a movie role by visiting an Italian vineyard, stomping (and falling) into the grapes with all her might. Or more recently, when an Atlanta television reporter covering a local wine event fell several feet from the platform, becoming an overnight internet sensation.
While you may not make it on television, here’s your chance to experience the joy that is grape stomping.
“The 2018 Wine & Roses Festival” will take place on Saturday, April 21, as Messina Hof celebrates the 34th anniversary of the budding of the vines and the blooming of the roses at their winery and resort. The event begins at 11 a.m., and wraps up around 8 p.m. that evening.
The highlight of the event is the grape stomp competition. Teams ranging from two to four members will compete in two-minute heats, trying to fill bottles with juice. The team with the most juice in the bottle advances to the next round of heats. Prizes will be awarded for the top three teams, so start practicing!
There will be plenty of other exciting aspects to this year’s festival, beginning with food and drinks. Guests can take advantage of a day-long wine tasting, sampling the many wines Messina Hof has to offer. Wine and chocolate pairing classes are available as well, where attendees will try a variety of gourmet chocolates paired with award-winning wines. Guests will also have the opportunity to enjoy a family-style Italian feast, which includes a smorgasbord of fantastic Italian foods.
The arts will also be on display at the festival. Live music will take place at the Rose Garden and the Lakeside Deck periodically throughout the day. Guests will also get to vote on wine labels designed by Texas artists. The winner will have their art featured on a Messina Hof wine bottle.
For those looking to extend the party another day, the Wine & Roses half marathon and 5K races will take place on Sunday, April 22, starting at 7 a.m. The path leads runners through the vines of Messina Hof Winery and Resort, with wine tasting stations throughout the course.
So enjoy a wine-filled weekend with Messina Hof and celebrate 34 years of great wine from the Brazos Valley.
