Grape Stomp and Harvest Festival at Fall Creek Vineyards This Saturday
From 11am to 5pm, celebrate the end of the annual grape harvest with wine tasting, a gourmet two-course lunch, a hayride tour of the vineyards, live music, and, of course, the traditional grape stomp. (Don't appreciate a bouquet of sweaty feet in your Cabernet? Not to worry--no wine is actually produced from the stomp.)
Though the event itself is free, you'll want to call (325) 379-5361 ahead of time and reserve your spot for the $22/person lunch. The first course, from Leu Savanh, chef and owner of Zagat-rated August E's restaurant in Fredericksburg, will feature mesquite-grilled baby back ribs encrusted in lemongrass and garlic on an Asian-style slaw with sweet chili sauce. Save room for the second course from Chef Brian Hay, program director of ACC's Culinary Arts Program: a smoked beef tenderloin over wild greens with creamy celery seed sauce and smoked poblano pepper sauce. Lunches will be paired with two glasses of award-winning Fall Creek Vineyards wines--an excellent value for the price.
Wine tastings are available for $4 and come with a souvenir glass. Be sure to try "Ed's Smooth Red," a Merlot-based wine that was recently featured on "The TODAY Show" as one of the best wines in America for under $15/bottle.
The winery is situated in a picturesque spot near Lake Buchanan, about a two-hour drive from Austin. Make sure to designate a driver or check out some of the charming local lodging options and make a weekend of it.
