Immediately after the harvest activity concluded at Messina Hof Winery & Resort, the people who harvested were directed from the vineyard back to the winery for the Big Kahuna contest, annual grape stomp and a wine tasting. 

The Big Kahuna contest begins with a selection of the most unique grape clusters. After several people were selected they used their talents to impress the crowd with a talent show. Eventually the winner was chosen by the crowd. The winner won a large, colorful cork Big Kahuna necklace.

In the same winery area, participants were encouraged to take off their shoes, dip their feet in the water and then stomp the grapes. The stomping became intense with the encouragement of the staff. Other staff members guided people through the process which culminated with each stomper stamping their grape covered feet on the back of a white t-shirt that left the print. People were given directions on how to make the image permanent. (The grapes stomped will be used to produce a Messina Hof port-style wine.)

After the grape stomping,  participants were taken on a tour by Paul Bonarrigo. Then people were encouraged to participate in a wine tasting. In the barrel area, Karen Bonarrigo addressed the large group and the Messina Hof wines were poured. Later in the evening the Gala Dinner was held.

Grape stamped t-shirt!

Stomping the grapes at Messina Hof!

Grape stamping on a t-shirt at Harvest Festival