Back "down the hill" for this blog (it's actually been cooler down here on several of the recent days!). Throughout California, wineries are now well immersed in the 2008 harvest and crush. Several regions offer annual celebrations of the harvest for wineries and wine drinkers alike. One held very close to home (well, for those living in Sacramento, at least) is the annual Crush Festival at the Old Sugar Mill in Clarksburg.
This year's event will be held on Saturday and Sunday, September 27 and 28 from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. both days. Guns & Hoses - the police and firefighters charity - will be the beneficiary of this event, with all proceeds from a raffle and auction going to support this local group. In addition to the auction and lottery, all six resident tasting rooms (including my winery, the Solomon Wine Company) will be open for complimentary tastings, with most offering something special to celebrate the 2008 harvest. Additionally, there will be live music both days and a selection of catered food available for purchase.
One of the most popular features of this annual event is the Grape Stomp - your chance to "get your feet wet (and sticky and mushy, too)" by actually stomping grapes from the 2008 harvest in barrels. Compete with other visitors to see who can produce the most grape juice in the allotted time. Sign-ups are available both days at the Old Sugar Mill.
So plan to become an active participant in the 2008 harvest - and benefit a terrific local charity - by attending the Crush Festival at the Old Sugar Mill. Great time - great wine - great benefit.