Grape Stomp Festa Returns to Julian

The shift in seasons from the cherished summertime to the impending fall means folding up those beach towels and trading in the tattered flip-flops for snug boots. As difficult as this may be to grasp, California decided to make the transition a little easier on us San Diegans by declaring September the sixth annual Wine Month. So breathe easy and breathe in deep the sweet smell of vino as change embarks in the atmosphere all around us. 

The charming and quaint community of Julian is letting you crush your own wine and drink it too by celebrating olde-world style at the annual Grape Stomp Festa on September 4, 2010. 

Have some pent-up fall frustrations to get out of your system? The grape stomp prepares two barrels for all your crushing desires, one for adults and one just for the kids. Shoulder to shoulder with 2,000 enthralled visitors, you’ll get your hands and feet a little dirty as you squish, smash, and step through thousands of blessed grapes. 

It’s an all-out Roman affair, with ambiance refined in the warmth of Italian music from Roman Holiday, Bocci Ball competitions, stomping, wine tasting, a Jumbo Jump for the young ones and a selection of foods and crafts for sale. Of course, there’s also the inevitable unabashed dancing that usually reveals itself when even the best of us have our wine-glass in hand. 

The stomp and festa is held at the Menghini Winery, one of the most treasured wineries nestled 3 miles north of downtown Julian, in the foothills of Volcan Mountain. Both cozy and refined, Menghini amply produces approximately 4,000 cases of premium wine each year. Just a short hour drive from San Diego, Julian’s historic mountain village reputation and promising serene adventures in every season, from apples to snow, hikes to wine, sits as the perfect getaway from the city life. 

For $10 for the 21 and over crowd, wine-enthusiasts and fervent stompers alike will essentially contribute to the splendor of the city, fundraising for the Julian Chamber of Commerce. The past 12 years have provided the city with such benefits as creative marketing, pristine streets, and preservation of historic projects and events.

Stomp away on September 4th from 11am to 7pm during the Grape Stomp Festa at the Menhini Winery in Julian. The tranquility of a two-lane country road with guide you straight to the barrels awaiting the squish of grapes between your tanned toes. Tickets are $10 for the 21 and up, $5 for ages 6-20, and all those under 5 are welcome to trudge for free. For more information on the Julian Grape Stomp Festa at the Menhini Winery, please visit julianca.com.

Discover more about California Wine Month celebrations in Temecula.

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