In The News

Wine Business Monthly – Savor Idaho Wine Event Features Diverse Array of the State’s Wineries, Draws Big Crowd

The friendly hospitality and laid back atmosphere of Idaho wineries was on full display during the Idaho Wine Commission’s 13th annual Savor Idaho event at the Idaho Botanical Garden on June 11.

Idaho Business Review – Idaho leads the nation for growth in regional cider brands 

June is Idaho Wine & Cider Month, celebrating Idaho’s success as a rapidly growing and nationally recognized wine and cider region. Throughout June, wineries and cideries across the state will host special events, offer promotions, and the industry’s popular Savor Idaho wine tasting event comes to the Idaho Botanical Garden on June 11.

Great Northwest Wine – Unique Approach To Ice Wine Leads To Win For Nederend, Koenig Vineyards

CALDWELL, Idaho — There’s a rich tradition of exquisite dessert wines made with Williamson Vineyard Riesling at Koenig Vineyards, but it’s rare to see a multiple vintage expression of ice wine produced anywhere in the world, much less the Snake River Valley.

Great Northwest Wine – Riesling Ice Wine By Koenig Vineyards Rules Idaho Judging Again

CALDWELL, Idaho — It was no shock to see the storied Riesling ice wine program at Koenig Vineyards win best of show in the 2023 Idaho Wine & Cider Competition — the third time in the past decade.

Beverage Master – The Return of Community Ciders

In the Pacific Northwest, some cideries take local apples and use them to create community cider-based ciders, with the profits often donated to a designated local charity. Following are some examples of PNW cideries’ community cider programs.

VoyageOhio – Hidden Gems: Meet Moya Dolsby of Idaho Wine Commission

Born in Seattle, Washington, I grew up near Woodinville wine country. I have one sister who is three years younger. She lives in Portland, Oregon, with her husband and two daughters. My parents were married for 27 years and got divorced after my sister left for college. Both of my parents still live in the Seattle area. I attended Monroe High School and was involved in my community. My last two years of high school, I missed a third of the year for the various clubs/boards I sat on. I still have a recurring dream that I don’t know where my classes are since I was gone so much. 

Wine Enthusiast – In Idaho’s Snake River Valley, a High-Altitude, Cold-Climate Oasis

Skiers, fly-fishers and outdoor sports enthusiasts have long flocked to Idaho’srugged mountains and desert plateaus, but in recent years, the Gem State is burgeoning into a hotspot for enophiles. Officially becoming an AVA in 2007, the Snake River Valley is home to a plethora of grape varieties, from late-ripening reds to cold-loving whites.

Great Northwest Wine – Huston Vineyards: 2023 Idaho Winery Of The Year

CALDWELL, Idaho — Gregg and Mary Alger can tell a winery story that many owners would cherish — plant vines, launch two brands, raise children and transition into a second-generation business.

Great Northwest Wine – Rolling Hills Vineyard: 2023 Idaho Winery To Watch

GARDEN CITY, Idaho — Mark Pasculli graduated from one of the wine industry’s most respected universities, but he didn’t go to Fresno State for viticulture or enology.

Great Northwest Wine – Idaho Wine Commission Celebrates More Vines, Unveils New Logo

This year, the Idaho Wine Commission moved its annual meeting to the Nampa Civic Center. The day before, its virtual meeting touched on mental health among agricultural workers, climate change and weather, advocacy opportunities and legislative challenges for the industry.

City Lifestyle Magazine – An Idaho Wine Backstage Pass

Idaho has received increasing recognition nationwide as it becomes a destination for wine enthusiasts like myself. The Idaho Wine Commission’s 2022 Wine Boot Camp was an exclusive, backstage pass to the concert of wine making. Getting behind the scenes, we stepped into the shoes of the local grape growers and winemakers over a fun-filled two-days of unique compositions from a variety of wine artists. We experienced the incredible orchestration required to transform an unassuming fruit to a fascinatingly complex beverage. We indulged not only in delicious wine, but in the information that poured from knowledgeable, passionate winery owners. 

SIP Magazine – BELLY WARMERS THAT CELEBRATE THE END OF WINTER

As the Pacific Northwest thaws out from an unexpected late winter, the rain and daffodils sprouting signify that spring is around the corner. So what are some good drinks for imbibing during this transition from winter ice to spring rains?

SIP Magazine – THE ULTIMATE WEEKEND GETAWAY TO BOISE

When it comes to straddling the best of city life and the great outdoors, it is hard to beat Boise. Called the “City of Trees,” Idaho’s capital city offers a cornucopia of happening bars, cultural cornerstones and delicious, diverse food options while being mere minutes away from beautiful mountains and sparkling rivers. We love the accessibility, the lack of jostling crowds … and that you can find a parking spot downtown. (Can you believe it?)

KMVT – Salute to Idaho Agriculture: Cedar Draw Cider

BUHL, Idaho (KMVT/KSVT) — In 2015, Emily Mason and her husband were looking for something to do with the acres of plums they had on their Buhl property – when Emily had an idea… fermentation.

Vinepair – For Emerging American Wine Regions, Can Trends Trump Terrior?

Know thyself. This tiny phrase, coined by the ancient Greeks, remains evergreen. But for an emerging wine region, how does one go about figuring out its identity? Respecting the alchemy of terroir and grape varieties is obviously paramount, but how much do trends dictate the varieties, the styles, or even the practices of up-and-coming AVAs, and possibly define a region?

Sip Magazine – SUPER BOWL SUNDAY BEER & FOOD PAIRINGS

Looking to up your game beyond the fast food fare featured at Super Bowl parties? Whether you are heading to your local brewery or cidery to watch the game, or just picking up food and drink to bring to a viewing party, here are some food and drink suggestions from Pacific Northwest breweries and cideries. It is a great way to create a more elevated experience while rooting for the Eagles or the Chiefs — or just laughing at the commercials and the half-time show.

Hemispheres – Women Are Leading Idaho’s Growing Snake River Valley Wine Scene

The crop most associated with Idaho is, of course, the potato, but as the American wine industry seeks out new AVAs, the Gem State has proved to be a bit of a treasure. In particular, a number of women winemakers who came to the profession later in life have been leading the state’s viticultural revolution.

Idaho6 News – Made in Idaho: Shopping local for the holidays

Idaho is full of great makers and bakers, so whatever you buy local, you’re sure to have takers!

Wine With Paige – Women in Wine: Beverly Williamson of Williamson Orchards & Vineyards

Williamson Orchards and Vineyards, located in the heart of the Sunnyslope Wine Trail, has been family owned and operated for generations. What started off as a family homestead, is now a thriving orchard, well-known grape grower, and award-winning winery. 

Post Register – Late start but strong finish for Idaho wine grapes

Idaho’s grape growing season was delayed because of the wet, cool spring, but warm temperatures that lasted through much of October helped fruit continue to ripen, said Idaho Wine Commission Executive Director Moya Shatz-Dolsby.