Idaho might be best known for potatoes, but the state also boasts some of the finest vineyards in the United States. Nestled between picturesque mountains and rolling hills, Idaho’s vineyards benefit from fertile volcanic soils and a unique climate, making it ideal for wine production. Visitors will find a delightful array of wineries offering both classic and unique wine varieties.
For those planning a wine tour, Idaho offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from family-owned vineyards with deep roots in the region to modern establishments pushing the boundaries of winemaking. Tasting rooms provide a perfect opportunity to savor these fine wines while enjoying the scenic beauty of Idaho. The diversity and quality of the wines are sure to impress both seasoned enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
Ste. Chapelle Winery
Ste. Chapelle Winery is one of Idaho’s largest and most well-known wineries. Located in Caldwell, it was founded in 1975 and quickly became popular for producing excellent wines from the Snake River Valley AVA.
Visitors can enjoy touring the winery and tasting a variety of wines, including Riesling, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah. These tours offer a chance to learn about the winemaking process and sample different vintages.
The winery’s beautiful setting offers stunning views of the surrounding vineyards and orchards. It’s an ideal spot for wine lovers who appreciate both great wine and scenic beauty.
Ste. Chapelle also offers seasonal releases and award-winning wines. The winery’s Soft series is particularly popular among visitors. Guests can visit the winery’s website to learn more about their wine offerings and events throughout the year.
With a crush capacity of 3,000 tons and the ability to produce up to 150,000 cases annually, Ste. Chapelle Winery plays a significant role in Idaho’s wine industry. For more details, visit Ste. Chapelle.
2) Sawtooth Winery
Sawtooth Winery, nestled in Idaho’s Snake River Valley, was founded in 1987. The winery’s unique location on steep, south-sloping hills creates a perfect environment for growing wine grapes. The area was once rich pastures owned by Charles Pintler before becoming a vineyard.
Sawtooth Winery stands out with its 400-acre Skyline vineyard, which is the largest vineyard in Idaho. This vineyard’s position at 2,500 feet elevation leads to diverse micro-climates, ideal for cultivating a variety of grape types. These grapes include aromatic whites and Spanish reds.
The winery is famous for its award-winning Riesling, which comes directly from the Skyline Vineyard. Visitors appreciate the laid-back atmosphere, beautiful patio, and top-quality service at Sawtooth Winery. It has become a favorite spot for both locals and tourists.
Sawtooth Winery’s address is 19348 Lowell Road, Building. The blend of stunning landscapes and top-tier wines makes this winery a must-visit in the Treasure Valley. For those exploring the Sunny Slope wine trail, Sawtooth Winery is a key stop.
For more information, visit their website.
3) Huston Vineyards
Huston Vineyards is situated in Southern Idaho’s Snake River Valley AVA along the Sunnyslope Wine Trail. This charming vineyard thrives on rich volcanic soil and long growing days, which contribute to its unique wines.
Located on Chicken Dinner Road, this vineyard occupies a prime spot adjacent to the historic town of Huston, Idaho. The Alger family runs Huston Vineyards, emphasizing quality from the moment the grapes are grown.
Their wines start in the vineyard—either from their own estate or select nearby vineyards. Visitors can expect to taste world-class wines that have garnered international accolades. Varieties produced here include bold reds and crisp whites, each reflecting the terroir of the region.
Huston Vineyards has the honor of being named the 2023 Idaho Winery of the Year, underscoring their dedication to excellence. They offer a welcoming atmosphere for visitors, with tasting rooms open in the afternoons.
For more details, you can visit their website at Huston Vineyards. This location is more than a winery; it’s a testament to Idaho’s growing reputation in the wine world.
4) Cinder Wines
Cinder Wines is one of Idaho’s most celebrated urban wineries. Named after the volcanic cinder that lies beneath the vineyards, this winery has been honored by Sunset Magazine as one of the West’s best urban wineries.
Located in Garden City, Cinder Wines has an address at 107 E. 44th St. Visitors can enjoy the unique “growler” system. You can refill a growler of your favorite wine right at the tasting room.
Founded by Melanie Krause in 2006, Cinder Wines has grown from producing just 40 cases to a whopping 8,000 cases annually. Melanie’s dedication to creating amazing wines is changing how people view Idaho’s wine region.
Cinder Wines sources its grapes from the Snake River Valley AVA. The volcanic soil in this area contributes a distinctive character to their wines, making them stand out.
If you want to learn more about Cinder Wines, visit their website or plan a visit to their location in Garden City.
5) Split Rail Winery
Split Rail Winery is nestled in Garden City, Idaho. It stands out with its adventurous spirit and unique approach to winemaking. Founded in 2010 by Jed and Laura Hefner-Glavin, the winery is dedicated to supporting local agriculture and creating Idaho-centric wines.
The winery offers a wide range of wines, from traditional styles to innovative blends. They are known for their fresh and youthful approach to winemaking. Their 2020 Vermouth is a recent addition that captures their spirit of exploration.
Visitors can enjoy a welcoming atmosphere at the winery. It’s a great place to relax and savor some of the best wines in Idaho. The tasting room is open daily from 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM, making it convenient for wine lovers to stop by.
Split Rail Winery’s commitment to quality and local ingredients makes it a must-visit spot. They create wines that are a true reflection of Idaho’s terroir. For more details, check out their official website or browse through its Tripadvisor reviews.
6) Bitner Vineyards
Bitner Vineyards is located in the Snake River valley of southwestern Idaho. They specialize in growing premium vinifera wine grapes. The vineyard offers an outdoor tasting room with a spectacular view of the valley. It’s a family-owned winery and produces a variety of wines.
Bitner Vineyards is a members-only winery, but they do allow limited reservations for non-members in advance. They have specific tasting room hours from May to November on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
One unique feature is their bed and breakfast service, which provides a relaxing experience for visitors looking to stay overnight. Visitors can enjoy their wine tastings on the patio, making for a scenic and memorable visit.
Bitner Vineyards also produces a special wine called Las Tres Mujeres, which honors three generations of Latina women in the family. Visitors will find this wine’s story both inspiring and moving.
For those interested in visiting, reservations can be made online, ensuring a spot at this exclusive and beautiful winery. For more details, visit their official website.
7) Fujishin Family Cellars
Fujishin Family Cellars stands out in the Idaho wine community. This award-winning winery is located in Caldwell, Idaho. It specializes in crafting wines from the Snake River Valley AVA.
They focus on developing new grape varieties. This approach keeps winemaking exciting for them. It offers visitors a chance to explore unique flavors they might not find elsewhere.
Martin Fujishin, the co-founder, has a passion for lesser-known grape types. His dedication keeps the wine offerings fresh and interesting. This enthusiasm helps Fujishin Family Cellars thrive in a competitive market.
Visitors are often charmed by the intimate and welcoming atmosphere of the winery. They often appreciate the personal touch the Fujishin family brings. This smaller scale contrasts nicely with other larger operations in the industry.
Explore the winery’s collection and experience the friendly vibe in the tasting room. It’s a treat for any wine lover looking to try something new. Make sure to see why it’s a must-visit on any Idaho wine tour. For more information, you can visit their website.
8) Hat Ranch Winery
Hat Ranch Winery, located in Caldwell, is a must-visit vineyard in Idaho. Situated on the Sunnyslope Wine Trail, Hat Ranch provides a scenic landscape with a vineyard view. The tasting room is open every day from 12 noon to 5 pm, allowing visitors to enjoy hand-crafted wines.
The winery’s history dates back to 1902, originally established as a farm and ranch by the Frison family. The great-grandchildren later transformed it into a winery, keeping its rich heritage alive. This blend of history and wine-making offers a unique countryside experience for guests.
The winery has won several awards, including the title of “2019 Idaho Winery of the Year.” Visitors can taste a variety of specialty varietal wines. Some of these award-winning wines are crafted with knowledge gained from the nearby Vale Wine Company, which Hat Ranch purchased in 2014.
Hat Ranch Winery also stands out for its dedication to quality. The winemaker has honed his craft since 2011, carefully selecting blends and ensuring each wine is a delight. A visit to this winery guarantees a memorable experience for any wine enthusiast.
For more information, visit HAT Ranch Winery.
9) Koenig Vineyards
Koenig Vineyards, founded in 1995, is located in the Sunny Slope District of Idaho’s Snake River Valley. This area is known for producing exceptional wines due to its unique climate and soil.
They specialize in hand-crafted small lots of fine varietal wines. Their offerings include Viognier, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Riesling, Sangiovese, and Petite Sirah.
Visitors to Koenig Vineyards can enjoy a tasting room that overlooks the picturesque landscape. The location provides a serene and beautiful backdrop for wine tasting, making it a special experience for guests.
To plan a visit or learn more, the Koenig Vineyards website offers detailed information.
10) Telaya Wine Co.
Telaya Wine Co. started in 2008, producing just 50 cases of wine. Since then, they’ve grown tremendously, focusing on family and hard work.
Nestled in Idaho, they handcraft wines that reflect local flavors. Visitors often praise their hospitality and the detailed care they put into each bottle.
The winery utilizes grapes from both Idaho and Washington, showcasing a diverse range of wines. This blend of regions creates unique and rich flavors.
Telaya Wine Co. prides itself on its commitment to quality. The wines are well-balanced and crafted with a dedication to excellence.
Located by the scenic Snake River in Adrian, Oregon, their Emerald Slope Vineyard contributes to their selection. The vineyard’s distinct sections, with differing soils and climates, add complexity to their wines.
Idaho’s Wine History
Idaho’s wine history spans over a century, featuring early experiments and a modern revival that placed the state on the map for wine lovers.
Early Beginnings
Wine grapes were first planted in Idaho in the 1860s, mainly in the Lewiston area. During this time, Idaho gained initial recognition for its potential in grape growing and wine production.
The early success, however, came to a halt in the early 20th century due to Prohibition. Vineyards were abandoned as the nation imposed a ban on alcohol production and consumption. This period saw Idaho’s wine industry dwindle, with grape cultivation all but disappearing.
After Prohibition ended, the state’s wine industry was slow to recover. Agricultural focus shifted to other crops, and it wasn’t until several decades later that Idaho saw a resurgence in wine grape planting.
Modern Revival
The turning point for Idaho’s wine industry came in the 1970s when vineyards began reappearing along the Snake River Valley. This region became pivotal for the state’s wine production.
In 2007, Idaho’s first American Viticultural Area (AVA), the Snake River Valley AVA, was established. This designation highlighted the unique terroir and ideal growing conditions offered by the region’s volcanic soils.
From this point, Idaho’s wine industry flourished, featuring a variety of wines such as Syrah, Merlot, Riesling, and more exotic options like Tempranillo. This blend of traditional and unique wines has garnered attention and accolades for Idaho, cementing its place as a notable wine region.
Unique Terroir of Idaho
Idaho’s vineyards benefit from a perfect combination of climate, weather, and rich soil, making the state a prime location for producing exceptional wines.
Climate and Weather
Idaho enjoys a diverse climate that is ideal for winemaking. The region experiences hot, dry summers and cold winters, which are perfect conditions for growing a variety of grapes. This temperature variability helps produce wines with balanced acidity and complex flavors.
The Snake River Valley, one of Idaho’s main wine regions, benefits from long daylight hours during the summer. This extra sunlight helps grapes ripen gradually, enhancing their flavor profiles. The cool nights maintain the grapes’ acidity, crucial for producing excellent wines.
Rainfall is also well-distributed, reducing the need for irrigation. This natural water supply ensures healthier grapes, reducing the reliance on artificial watering systems. Additionally, Idaho’s high desert climate means lower humidity, which helps prevent the development of mold and mildew on the vines.
Soil Composition
The soil in Idaho is diverse and uniquely suited for viticulture. Much of the vineyard soil is derived from volcanic ash and ancient lakebed sediments. This combination creates well-draining soils rich in minerals and nutrients, essential for healthy grape vines.
Volcanic soils contribute to the complex flavors found in Idaho wines. They are often rich in iron and magnesium, which are beneficial for grape development. The rocky texture of these soils compels vines to grow deeper, resulting in more resilient plants and grapes with concentrated flavors.
Sandy loam is another common soil type in Idaho vineyards. This soil is ideal for grape growing because it provides excellent drainage, preventing water from pooling around the roots. This keeps the vines healthy and influences the grapes to develop rich, intense flavors.
By leveraging the unique combination of climate and soil, Idaho continues to produce distinctive and high-quality wines that reflect the state’s exceptional terroir.
Types of Grapes Grown in Idaho
Idaho’s climate supports a wide range of grape varieties, from popular types like Cabernet Sauvignon to experimental varieties with unique flavors. Learn about the most notable grapes grown in this region.
Popular Varieties
Cabernet Sauvignon is a favorite in Idaho. This red grape thrives in the state’s climate, especially in areas like the Snake River Valley and Eagle Foothills. It produces a medium to full-bodied wine with flavors of black cherry, black currant, and baking spices. It’s worth trying this wine with steak or lamb chops.
Riesling is the most planted grape variety in Idaho. Known for its versatility, Riesling can be sweet or dry and often features notes of peach, apricot, and honeysuckle. It pairs well with a variety of foods, from spicy dishes to light salads.
Mars Grape is designed for vertical grape growing, making it a practical choice for vineyards. Planted on strong trellises about 8 to 10 feet apart, it is appreciated for its adaptability and robust growth.
Experimental Varieties
Idaho winemakers also experiment with lesser-known varieties. European grapes are an interesting option. In colder areas, some growers use tubs fitted with trellises and store them in unheated garages during the winter. This technique keeps the temperature between 30 and 40°F, protecting the vines.
Somerset Grape is another experimental variety worth noting. This grape can be grown successfully and has unique characteristics that contribute to Idaho’s diverse wine scene. Finding these grapes in local wines adds a touch of novelty for wine enthusiasts.
The state continues to be a hub for wine innovation. With over 20 different grape varieties planted in regions like Snake River Valley since 1864, Idaho’s wine industry is always evolving.
