Idaho's
winery industry dates back more than a century, when French and
German immigrants began growing the grape in the mid-1800's.
Prohibition
took its toll on the wine region in the 20's and 30's, and it
wasn't until 1970 that wine grapes were again planted in Idaho.
Located
along the Snake River Valley where most of the Idaho's more than 30 wineries
are located the geography, well-drained soils, and climate result in wines with surprisingly rich body and taste. These include an outstanding variety ranging from Chardonnay and Gewürztraminer to Merlot and Pinot Noir.
"Wine. Idaho's dirty little secret" is how the Idaho Wine Commission bills it. So best
believe that when you come to Idaho... it ain't just potatoes.
(Photo above right, the St. Chapelle Winery, the state's
oldest and largest.)
More information about Idaho wineries around the Web:
Idaho Wineries & Vineyards
- One of the best wine guides out there from ...surprise! Idaho takes its wine seriously offering resources such as a food pairing and pronunciation guide, favorite
gourmet recipes from Idaho wineries, a directory to the state's
wineries and vineyards, and the complete weekend winery tour with
maps and directions.
Idaho
Wines, Idaho Wineries and Idaho Wine Country
- Find lodging, dining, special events and touring opportunities
organized within the Snake River Valley and Idaho Panhandle wine
regions, with an interactive map, an A-Z directory, and quick
factoids on the state's wine industry.