“Not a one-trick pony” – This versatile grape has a long history in Idaho
January 14, 2026 (Boise, ID) — The Idaho Wine Commission has declared 2026 the “Year of Riesling” in Idaho. One of the first varieties planted in Idaho after Prohibition, the grape has been grown since the late 1970s, marking over 50 years as one of the top varieties in the state. Riesling is popular with Idaho winemakers due to its versatile flavor profile that provides opportunity for creativity and experimentation.
“Riesling does well in Idaho because of its versatility. You can try it sweet or dry. Idaho Riesling can be tart, citrusy, lemony or ripe, tropical and floral. It’s not just a one-trick pony,” said Will Wetmore, award-winning winemaker and owner of Veer Wine Project in Garden City. “You can do a lot with Riesling. I’ve worked with it for years now and am always experimenting. I’ve never made it the same way twice.”
To mark 2026 as “The Year of Riesling,” the Idaho Wine Commission (IWC) released a video featuring Idaho grape growers and winemakers discussing the unique qualities of Idaho Riesling. The IWC plans to highlight Idaho Riesling wines throughout the year, including during Savor Idaho at the Idaho Botanical Garden on June 7 and Idaho Wine & Cider Month in June. International Riesling Day is Friday, March 13.
In Idaho, you’ll find many unique Riesling varietals:
- Dry styles with crisp acidity and bright aromatics
- Sweeter versions layered with peach, honey, and citrus
- Low Alcohol By Volume (ABV) options that are refreshing and sessionable
- Ice Wine: a rare dessert wine made from grapes naturally frozen on the vine. Idaho’s Riesling Ice Wine has earned top awards at the Idaho Wine Competition.
“Riesling is a good entry wine for those new to wine because it pairs well with many foods,” said Moya Dolsby, Executive Director of the Idaho Wine Commission. We want people to appreciate Riesling. It’s an amazing grape.”
Where To Taste: Enjoy a glass of Idaho Riesling at Albertsons, the Boise Co-Op, local bottle shops, and the following Idaho wineries: 3 Horse Ranch Vineyards, Bitner Vineyards, Buckhorn Vineyards, Cinder, Coiled Wines, Cold Springs, Free Dog Wines, Fujishin Estate Winery, Holesinsky Vineyard + Winery, Indian Creek Winery, Koenig Vineyards, Lindsay Creek Vineyards, Proletariat Wine Co., Sawtooth Winery, Snake River Winery, Sol Invictus Vineyard, Ste. Chapelle, Sweetbriar, Two Bad Labs Vineyard, Veer Wine Project, Williamson and Y Knot.
To find more about Idaho Riesling, go to https://blog.idahowines.org/2026-is-the-year-of-riesling-in-idaho.
About Idaho Wine Commission
The Idaho Wine Commission markets, connects and promotes Idaho’s unique wineries, cideries and growers. With an ideal climate and geography for growing grapes, it’s no wonder that Idaho is already home to over 65 wineries and cideries. We take wine seriously, but never ourselves. To learn more about Idaho wines and ciders, visit www.idahowines.org, or follow the Idaho Wine Commission on Facebook or Instagram, and Expect the Unexpected. Check out the Idaho region guide on WineFolly.com. This online resource lets consumers learn more about the state’s wine history, terroir, varietals, and offers tips for planning Idaho wine travel.
