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Writer's pictureEd Elam

Idaho’s Wine Country

Just a short drive from Boise is Idaho’s lush wine country. Aptly deemed “Sunnyslope,” a simple country drive would refresh the mind, body and soul.  With orchards, vineyards and a slow, winding river, this landscape is picturesque. Yes, the drive suffices, but it is wine country, so stopping and tasting is really the ideal course of action. 


Stretching from Ada County (Kuna, mainly) and running through the agricultural portion of Canyon County, the Sunnyslope Wine Trail is primarily nestled within the breathtaking Snake River Valley in Caldwell, Idaho. It’s often referred to as the “Heart of Idaho Wine Country.” Along this trail, you’ll discover 17 award-winning wineries, each with a unique story and exceptional wines to offer. While each is worth a visit, here are a few favorites:


St. Chapelle


Some of Idaho’s most established and widely distributed wines come from St. Chapelle. As the Sunnyslope Wine Trail website states:


Founded in 1975 in Emmett, Idaho, Ste. Chapelle is well known for producing outstanding wines from the Snake River Valley appellation. Moved to its present facility in 1978, the winery grew quickly, producing Riesling and Chardonnay as well as Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. Its popular “Soft” series continues to expand with offerings of Soft Red, Soft White and Soft Huckleberry.


Also the largest winery in Idaho, St. Chapelle has won many awards for its wines. While not currently hosting a summer concert series, this winery has in the past, so if you love music, wine and beautiful grounds, check the website for these potential events. Otherwise, the winery also has a wine club, and is a great place for weddings, if that sort of celebration is on your horizon. 


Bitner Vineyards 


Also a maker of award-winning wines, Bitner Vineyards is located in rural Caldwell, the tasting room is mainly open to members, so if you are not a member, you’ll need to make reservations.  These reservations are available on Fridays and Saturdays, so this could make a nice weekend excursion. 


Bitner’s not only takes pride in making good wine from hand-picked grapes, but also in how they treat their employees and environment. As stated on their website, “Bitner Vineyards values its reputation on being the only current LIVE (Low Input Vineyard and Enology) certified wine grapes, working to restore natural systems into Idaho viticulture. Bitner Vineyards is part of the solution to improving environmental conditions throughout all stages of wine growing.”


Indian Creek Winery


Located a bit east of Canyon County, in Kuna, Idaho, is the gorgeous Indian Creek Winery. Also award-winning, the labels on these bottles are beautiful and classy, and worth an award simply for their aesthetic. 


Also, if you are a lover of live music, this winery is where it’s at. Coming up on June 30 is an outdoor concert, in fact. This lovely venue is also available for events. Check out the website for more information.


The Sunnyslope Wine trail is just one of many features that make our area special. If you are thinking of a real estate move in Boise or the Treasure Valley, it would be my pleasure to visit with you and explore the options that are best for you.


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