Who is the grape stomping lady?

You may not know Melissa Sander’s name, but you probably know her as the Grape Stomper, the Grape Lady, or the Grape Lady Epic Fall Girl. Those names are in reference to a viral video that first appeared on YouTube in January of 2006 and became one of the most famous “fails” caught on camera.

Does grape stomping still exist?

Nowadays, grape stomping is not used as part of the usual production process in most Italian vineyards, but there are still places where you can give it a try. Many vineyards will happily sell you some grapes for the “DIY” experience, and many tours will include a stop for a spot of grape stomping.

Why did people stomp on grapes?

Grape-treading or grape-stomping is part of the method of maceration used in traditional wine-making. Rather than being crushed in a wine press or by another mechanized method, grapes are repeatedly trampled in vats by barefoot participants to release their juices and begin fermentation.