August brings around the harvest season for grapes in this area and region of the United States. For over two decades, Sumner Crest Winery in Portland, Tennessee has ended August with a harvest celebration. This year the winery plans to expand for a bigger event. The winery has been in business since 1997, and this will be the 24th Annual Grape Stomp Celebration.
This year the festival will start on Friday, Aug. 30, and finish on Saturday the 31st. For several years, the Grape Stomp has drawn customers from several surrounding states. So many customers relate to the old I Love Lucy episode and want to actually put their feet in the grapes and stomp around. There will be large vats of grapes so patrons can explore the feel of the fruit between their toes and under their feet. Hundreds of pounds of grapes are brought in for this fun event. The grapes are no longer used for wine from this celebration, but it’s still fun to play with the ripened fruit.
The event will kick off on Friday with Kruize Kontrol playing from 6pm-9pm that night. This high-energy band plays a mix of country and classic rock. If you wish to sample wines, please get there early so you can pick out the perfect bottle to enjoy for the lawn concert. Remember, music is on the lawn – so bring lawn chairs or blankets.
Saturday, Aug. 31- festivities will start up again that afternoon with Highway Wildflowers playing from 3pm-5pm. This talented band has a unique sound and plays a wide combination of all genres of music.
While at the winery explore the extensive gift shop, the chandelier room and take advantage of the wine and gift shop sale that will be going on for this event only. There will be food trucks to enjoy both days, plus the gourmet homemade chicken salad and pimento cheese that can be found in the winery cooler.
The Saturday night finale will be the band “Power Play” that has been a favorite for years on the winery stage. They will play a mix of all types of music. Kick back with a bottle of Sumner Crest wine and enjoy the music and dance floor. As the sun goes down, the dance floor heats up. Remember that no other alcohol is allowed at the event. This will be monitored. You are welcome to bring a picnic with you, but food options are available for purchase. This is an event for all ages. Kids are welcome, but you must be present with your children and supervise them at all times.
The event is free of charge. Sumner Crest invites you to join in the fun and help us celebrate, Friday, Aug. 30 and Saturday Aug. 31. The winery is right off I-65 at Exit 117 just across the Tennessee state line. For more information you can contact the winery at 615-325-4086. You may also visit our website to learn about other events – go to www.sumnercrestwinery.com or visit the winery Facebook page. In September, the winery will host a Ladies’ Sip and Shop and then have a Classic Car Cruise-In and Concert with Four On The Floor.
-submitted by Sumner Crest Winery
