…things I didn’t know ’til I jumped in!
Ever wondered what it’s really like stomping grapes for sparkling wine? I’m Vicky Farrow, owner of Amista Vineyards in Healdsburg, California. While we don’t offer grape stomping as a guest experience, I recently had the chance to step—literally—into this age-old winemaking tradition with our winemaker, Ashley Herzberg.
If grape stomping is on your bucket list, this is your insider’s peek at the reality behind the movies, the myths, and the magic.
Grape Stomping for Sparkling Mataró
During harvest, I joined Ashley as she practiced foot treading for our Sparkling Mataró, a rare and traditional technique. Instead of using machinery, Ashley uses her feet to gently press the grapes, a method that helps extract just the right amount of color and juice without damaging the seeds.
This kind of hands-on (or should I say feet-on?) winemaking is unusual in modern cellars, but it gives this sparkling wine a unique character and soul. I was excited, a little nervous, and definitely curious.
What I discovered surprised me—it’s nothing like what you see on TV or in the movies.
1. Cold Grapes Make Cold Feet
At Amista, we harvest at night or in the cool early morning hours. This keeps the grapes fresh, protects their delicate flavors, and helps manage sugar levels and acidity. But for the person stomping? It means plunging bare feet into icy clusters.
Let’s just say I quickly learned that numb toes are part of the winemaking adventure.
2. Why It Hurts at First
Forget the romantic image of soft berries floating in a tub of juice. Real grape stomping involves whole clusters—stems, skins, and all. At first, stepping onto the firm, knobby bunches can be a little painful.
The good news? The cold soon numbs your feet, and before long you find yourself giggling as the fruit squishes beneath you.
3. Foot Treading, Not Stomping
Ashley reminded me that what we were doing isn’t really “stomping.” The correct term is foot treading, a technique used for centuries in Europe. The goal isn’t to smash the fruit with brute force but to apply gentle, even pressure. That way, the skins break open and release juice and color, but the seeds stay intact. Crushing the seeds would release harsh tannins and bitterness—not exactly what you want in a sparkling wine.
It’s amazing to realize that your feet, when used gently, can be such effective winemaking tools.
4. Staying Upright Is Half the Fun
Between slippery juice, uneven grape clusters, and the sheer excitement of the moment, balance becomes optional. More than once, I found myself wobbling and grabbing onto the sides of the vat—or a friend—for support.
It’s not only a winemaking task, it’s a shared laugh and a playful challenge.
5. A Surprisingly Good Workout
Who knew grape stomping could double as cardio? Foot treading requires steady motion, pressure, and balance. Within minutes, I was feeling muscles I hadn’t used in a while.
Forget the treadmill—this is the most joyful workout you’ll ever try.
6. Yes, It’s Sticky
There’s no avoiding it—grape juice is sticky. Your feet, ankles, and even your legs will be coated in a layer of skins and juice. A quick rinse with the hose before and after is all part of the ritual. It’s messy, but that’s part of the charm.
7. Grape Stomping is So Much Fun!
What struck me most was how much fun it is. There’s something almost primal about being part of the winemaking process with your own two feet. It connects you directly to the fruit, the land, and the tradition of making wine.
It’s playful, sensory, and deeply satisfying. And even though we don’t offer grape stomping as a regular experience for guests, I’m grateful I had the chance to share this behind-the-scenes moment.
The Spirit of Winemaking at Amista Vineyards
At Amista Vineyards, winemaker Ashley Herzberg combines time-honored techniques like foot treading with modern practices to craft sparkling and Rhône-style wines that reflect the spirit of Dry Creek Valley.
If you’re curious about winemaking—or just love discovering something new—I invite you to visit us in Healdsburg. Taste our wines, stroll through the vineyards, and enjoy the hospitality that defines our community.
Because wine, from grape to glass, should always be joyful.
If you’re curious about how wine is made—or you just love discovering something new—we invite you to visit Amista Vineyards in Healdsburg. Come taste our wines, stroll the vineyard, and experience the spirit of Dry Creek Valley. Because wine should be joyful—from grape to glass.
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