Things to do / Travel Guide
You thought you were coming for the scenery, and Boise's friendly atmosphere - did you say hello to the governor? But lo and behold, central Idaho is packed with wineries. There are plenty of Merlots, some of the country's best Chardonnays, and mouth-watering Pinots. They're mostly concentrated around the Snake River, not too far from Boise. Follow I-84 or U.S. Highway 95 to get to most of them. Visit the Guv bearing gifts!
It's the region's combination of cool nights and sunlight-drenched days, the volcanic character of the soil, and the high elevation of the vineyards that makes it premium for the growing of great grape varietals. Think of Idaho's pristine lakes and rivers and heaven-piercing mountains, and you have a good idea of just what these wines are infused with.
Central Idaho's Sawtooth Winery
There's no better way to illustrate the wine's goodness than with a sip from Sawtooth Winery's yields. This winery is located in the heart of the lush Hidden Valley, surrounded by farmland of grains, sugar beets, and dairy production. Everywhere you go you're in sight of the mountains.
Sawtooth Winery's strength is in its control over the vineyards used to grow the grapes, and also in its steadfast use of French oak barrels in which the juice ferments and ages. For example, the Cabernet Sauvignon vintages were put straight into the barrels after pressing. For the Chardonnays, 70% were put straight into the barrels while the remainder was fermented in stainless steel tanks. The two parts were then blended for maximum fruit and oak taste.
Central Idaho's Boutique Wineries
The wineries in central Idaho tend to cluster near Hidden Valley, which is included within Treasure Valley. Many of the wineries are smaller affairs – boutiques - such as Indian Creek Winery, formerly Stowe Winery. They've been around since the late 80s, never growing too large, but providing all who care excellent wines for not too much.
You have to try them to believe them. Picked from the Stowe vineyard and aged for 10 months in oak, the Pinot Noir exhibits hints of dark chocolate and a bright cherry nose, with aromas of peppermint and leather. If you can take a port, you'll love this one: A blend of Syrah, Petit Verdot, and Malbec, it's been honeyed and bears hints of cinnamon, cloves, and raisins.
Honorable mention goes to Hell's Creek Winery - one of the oldest wineries in Idaho. Upon the backdrop of some of the greatest valley views in the country, this winery produces a rare, less than 5,000 cases per year of Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, and Cabernet Franc.
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