Situated high above acres of winding southwestern Idaho farmland in the Snake River Valley AVA, Ste. Chapelle Winery has taken the state’s wine industry by storm since its origin in 1976. Today, Ste. Chapelle is Idaho’s leader in both production and sales volume, earning the winery a coveted spot in the Precept Wine family since 2012.
That same year brought 1,502 cases of the Snake River Valley Gem State Red varietal blend to the market—a blend of 59 percent Merlot and 41 percent Syrah. Similar to Washington state’s Columbia Valley AVA, the region’s hot summers, cool winters, elevation and rich volcanic soil make for well-balanced grapes. The blend’s earthy aroma features subtle blackberry, leather and cedar aromas, and smooth tannins provide a dry and texturally pleasing finish with lingering dark fruit flavor at the back of the palate. Ste. Chapelle winemakers recommend pairing a glass with hearty dishes such as prime rib, rack of lamb or your favorite stew.
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