Thanks to warm weather encouraging early bud break, the wine grape harvest is coming to a close early this year. Luckily, there’s still time to get in on the action with these special experiences that get you out of the tasting rooms and into the vineyards.
Grgich Hills Estate (Napa)
Grape stomping is an annual tradition at this family-owned and family-friendly winery. From 10am to 4pm every day for the next week or so (as long as the fresh grapes last, so it's good to call first), guests can enjoy a good old-fashioned squashing. The $30 tariff includes a “grape footprint” souvenir shirt and wine tasting. Bring the kids, too – they can stomp and create a “stained” t-shirt for $15. // 1829 St. Helena Highway, Rutherford, grgich.com
Jordan Estate Harvest Lunch (Healdsburg)
If you’ve purchased Jordan Wines direct from the winery, you’ve earned reward points that can be spent like cash for food and wine events at the estate. This month, opt for the harvest lunch hosted at the French-style chateau through Oct. 16. Chef Todd Knoll creates a gogeous family-style feast including many ingredients sourced directly from the Jordan garden. Wine pairings are included, of course. Sit on the terrace, the crush pad, or even in the barrel room,and enjoy delicious food, tasty wine, and even better company. // 1474 Alexander Valley Road, Healdsburg, hjordanwinery.com
Field Stone Winery & Vineyards 5th Annual Harvest Festival (Healdsburg)
Giddy-up, grapes! Mark your calendar for noon to 3pm on Oct. 24, when the whole family is invited to join the winemaking team at Field Stone for a horse drawn carriage ride through the vines, led by Stuart Schroeder of the Stone Horse Farm of Sonoma County and his beautiful draft horses. It’s a good deal at $20 (kids up to age 12 free), with food, crafts for the kids, and Field Stone wines, too. Reservations are requested by Oct. 19. // 10075 California 128, Healdsburg, fieldstonewinery.com
Staglin Family Vineyard Harvest Party(Rutherford)
This party from 1 to 5pm on Oct. 24 take you to the base of the western slopes of Mount St. John, for peeks at the vineyards, the barrel room, and the crush pad. The family-friendly gathering is staged as a celebration for winery workers, and corks pop for library wines and new releases, all paired with lots of food such as paella, carnitas and ice cream. Your $100 ticket gets you live music, too. // 1570 Bella Oaks Lane, Rutherford, staglinfamily.com