Idaho Wine

Idaho is located in the USA’s Pacific Northwest just east of Oregon and Washington states. It is to the north of Nevada and Utah and shares a ragged northeastern border with Montana. Idaho’s main wine growing region is just east of Oregon where it follows the historical Snake River into the south of Idaho. Idaho was traditionally perhaps more known for growing potatoes than wine. This perception is slowing changing as quality wines flow forth.

The latitude of 43 degrees may be the same as the south of France but this is very much a continental climate. Arid hot weather and cold nights in the summer turn to vine killing freezes in the winter. Idaho has one of the shortest growing seasons in the USA. Growing degree-days (number of days in a season when the mean temperature is above 50F/10C - the temperature above which the vine can grow) are also at a premium with Idaho’s Snake River Valley AVA having an average of 1504 compared with the Napa’s 1,753. Grape growing is saved by an extended fall season which allows the fruits just enough hang time to ripen. This all equates to a very moderate growing season that is capable of producing a range of grapes, from cool climate varieties Pinot Noir and Riesling to heat loving Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah.