Snake River Valley Wine Region: 2009
May 16 / July 17, 2009
Known for its breathtaking wilderness and perhaps more famously for its potatoes, Idaho is also home to a fast-growing wine industry and award-winning 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. Idaho is known for growing and producing vinefera varieties such a Syrah and Viognier and classic varietals including Merlot, Cabernet, Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Riesling.Southwestern Idaho currently has the highest density of vineyards and wineries in the state. The land shows geologic evidence of volcanic sediment, and ancient Lake Idaho, formed nearly four million years ago, giving the soil a unique terroir. Centered in Canyon County, Idaho, is the Snake River Valley Wine Region. This beautiful wine region is located near the Idaho/Oregon border, and at the heart of the Snake River Canyon Scenic Byway. There are 18 different wineries/vineyards in the area.
