Idaho Wine Commission
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IDAHO WINE COMMISSION
In Idaho It’s All About The Grapes
Facts & Stats
Idaho is considered, by some, part of the new frontier of wine-growing areas of the United States. However, some of the first grapes planted in the Pacific Northwest were actually grown in Lewiston in the 1860s.
Known for its breathtaking wilderness and, perhaps more famously for potatoes, Idaho is also home to a fast-growing wine industry and fantastic wines. Nestled between the Rocky Mountains and the Snake River, Idaho Wine Regions nurture the grapes with a moderate climate, limited precipitation, and a consistent growing season that adds complexity to the grapes.
The characteristically cold winters allow vines to grow dormant gradually while ridding the plants of bugs and discouraging disease. A combination of cold nights and hot days serves to balance acids and sugars. The limited amount of rainfall allows growers to control water through irrigation.
Idaho is known for growing and producing classic varieties including Syrah, Merlot, Riesling, and Chardonnay, along with more adventurous wines such as Tempranillo and Malbec.
Regions
Explore Idaho Wine Country
The Idaho wine country is designated into 4 regions, the Northern, Southwestern, Southwestern Urban and the South Central. Whether you have a couple of hours or a couple of days, exploring Idaho Wine Country has never been easier.
Northern Wine Region
The Northern wine region is surrounded by Idaho’s majestic natural wonders and stretches across the panhandle of Idaho. Winery guests can take advantage of year-round activities and adventure. It is home to the Lewis-Clark Valley American Viticulture Area (AVA) that was approved in April of 2016. Encompassing 479 square miles with 100 vineyard acres currently planted. Lewis-Clark Valley AVA is made up of steep canyons of the Clearwater and mid-Snake Rivers and their tributaries.
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LEWIS CLARK WINE ALLIANCE
South Central Wine Region
Wineries in this region are just a short drive outside of Boise, making it an easy day trip for travelers and guests from around the state. In addition to local wineries are regional attractions like Craters of the Moon National Monument. Grapes from this region benefit from the area’s cold nights and hot summer days to create the perfect balance of natural sugars and acids.
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Southwestern Wine Region
Idaho’s Treasure Valley is rich in resources. The four-season climate, ancient volcanic soil and abundant water supply make this an ideal place to grow grapes and make wine. The state’s heaviest concentration of wineries is within this region’s Sunnyslope Wine Trail, which is part of the Snake River Valley American Viticulture Area (AVA). The Snake River Valley AVA approved in April of 2007 encompasses 8,000 square miles with 1,125 acres currently planted. Overlaying the ancient Lake Idaho, the shoreline creates its natural boundaries. The Eagle Foothills AVA approved in November of 2015 encompasses 49,815 acres, fully within the Snake River Valley AVA with 67 acres planted.
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SUNNYSLOPE WINE TRAIL
Southwestern Urban Wine Region
This region is within the urban core of Idaho. Concentrated in the capital city of Boise and surrounding communities, these urban wineries and tasting rooms are nearby places to sip and sample what Idaho has to offer. In addition to wine, this region features a blend of accessible outdoor adventure, world-class cuisine and diverse arts and culture offerings.
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Why Idaho Wine? A Welcoming Culture
Idaho wineries encourage visitors to come as they are.
COME AS YOU ARE
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Idaho Wines Fly Free
With over 60 wineries, three American Viticultural Areas, and over 1,300 acres of vineyards rooted in fertile volcanic soils, you’re sure to return home with an award-winning, hand-picked bottle of Idaho’s finest. Now when you visit Idaho wineries, you and your new traveling companions can get home easier, and for less on Alaska Airlines. As a Mileage Plan™ member, you’ll be able to check your first case of Idaho wines at no additional cost.
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The Idaho Wine Commission has compiled a wide range of useful resources and documents to assist you in learning about the wine industry. If you don’t find what you are looking for here, please contact us for assistance.
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IDAHO WINE COMMISSION
821 West State Street
Boise, ID, 83702
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Ph:(208) 332-1538
Email: [email protected]
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