Idaho native John Danielson leads this young winery near Caldwell in the Snake River Valley, which is emerging along with the state's nascent wine industry. This Merlot offers aromas of classic herbal characteristics, as well as pink peppercorn, lavender and red currant. On the palate, it is a nicely balanced red with flavors of black cherry and red plum. Pair this with pork … [Read more...] about Vale Wine Co. 2009 Merlot, Snake River Valley, $20
Idaho
Vale Wine Co. 2009 Rendezvous Red, Snake River Valley, $22
Fourth-generation Idahoan John Danielson led the launch of Vale Wine Co. after retiring from a successful career at Albertsons. He learned his trade with hands on the grapes supplemented by coursework from U.C. Davis, and he has grown Vale from 600 cases in 2008 to 2,000 cases today. This blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah is a delicious and balanced red. It opens … [Read more...] about Vale Wine Co. 2009 Rendezvous Red, Snake River Valley, $22
Sawtooth Winery 2010 Vineyard Select Skyline Red, Snake River Valley, $12
Best Buy! Sawtooth Winery is one of Idaho's oldest producers, having started life as Pintler Cellars in 1987. Today, it is owned by Precept Wine in Seattle, and the wines are made by Bill Murray. This red blend from the Gem State's largest vineyard includes no fewer than eight varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Tempranillo, Petite Sirah, Petit Verdot, Grenache, Malbec and … [Read more...] about Sawtooth Winery 2010 Vineyard Select Skyline Red, Snake River Valley, $12