Krause & Schnerr Family Cellars near Boise spans both Melanie Krause’s acclaimed Cinder brand and this consumer-minded label, which offers bright and approachable red and white blends at Tuesday night prices. She builds it with Sangiovese and blends in Cabernet Sauvignon and Mourvèdre from some of Idaho’s top vineyards, including Skyline, Sawtooth and Williamson. Krause, a product of Washington State University and Ste. Michelle, keeps it fresh and young by going with whole-berry fermentation and just six months in neutral oak barrels. That makes for a delightful wine bringing notes of smoky strawberries and cranberry with a pleasing structure. She and her husband, Joe Schnerr, continue to grow their reach with this wine, increasing production by 70 percent from the 2015 vintage, and they can ship directly to consumers throughout the country. Suggested pairings include tomato-based pasta, a plate of dolmas or a mild cigar.
Rating: Excellent
Production: 1,700 cases
Alcohol: 14%
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