Idaho, a new frontier for wine
Idaho first started wine production in the 1860s in the northern part of the state. After prohibition, which halted commercial production, the industry was slow to return. Today the Snake River Valley – the state’s first AVA- has roughly 50 wineries and is home to a versatile and award-winning wine-growing region.
What makes idaho great
Perfect growing conditions
The unique combination of geography climate and sons found in Idaho's vineyards produce grapes with outstanding varietal character.
Room to grow
With tens of thousands of viable vineyard acres, Idaho is what Washington was 20 years ago: emerging. Located southeast of Washington's famed Walla Walla Valley AVA, Idaho's potential for growth is soaring where other states are facing grape shortages.
New, outstanding press
Idaho wines have already garnered national acclaim in the Wine Spectator, Wine Enthusiast, The Washington Post, Food & Wine, Sunset Magazine, and Wine & Spirits.
Riesling and so much more
With its 3,000-foot elevation, long growing season and diurnal shift, Riesling is rampant in Idaho.
Idaho Wine Country
History
The first vineyards in the Pacific Northwest were planted in 1864 in the Clearwater Valley in Northern Idaho.
Unique Terroir
Ancient volcanic sediment has bestowed rich, fertile, well-draining soil.
Climate
Very similar to Washington's Columbia Valley. Cold winters and long, warm summer dam allow for an ideal growing season, producing grapes with structure and balance.
Four Distinctive Seasons
Vinifera grapes thrive in this distinct four-season climate. The characteristic cold winters, which might first seem a disadvantage, are in fact quite conducive, allowing vines to go dormant, to rust and conserve important carbohydrates for the coming season, all the while, ridding plants of bugs and discouraging disease. In addition, the region's summer combination of cold nights and warm days help balance the grape acids and sugar levels favorably.