Eagle Foothills

🔍 Quick Summary

Eagle Foothills AVA, established in 2015, is Idaho’s first AVA entirely within state borders, offering a unique terroir with granitic soils and a cool climate ideal for diverse grape varieties.

🔊 Pronunciation: ee-guhl foo-thilz

📜 History

Eagle Foothills AVA boasts a rich viticultural history:

  • Established in 2015 – Recognized as Idaho's first AVA entirely within the state, encompassing 49,815 acres.

  • Pioneered by 3 Horse Ranch Vineyards – Martha and Gary Cunningham led the petition for AVA status, highlighting the area's unique terroir.

  • First AVA within Idaho – Distinguished as the first American Viticultural Area located entirely within Idaho's borders.

  • Influence of Prospect Peak – The nearby Prospect Peak, at 4,874 feet, contributes to the region's distinctive climate and soil composition.

🧠 What to Know

Eagle Foothills AVA is characterized by:

  1. Unique Terroir – Granitic and volcanic soils from ancient Lake Idaho provide excellent drainage and mineral complexity.

  2. Elevation – Vineyards range from 2,490 to 3,412 feet (759–1,040 m), offering significant diurnal temperature variations.

  3. Climate – A cool climate with annual precipitation between 10–18 inches (250–457 mm), suitable for early to mid-season grape varieties.

  4. Diverse Grape Varietals – Cultivation of both red and white varieties, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Chardonnay, and Riesling.

  5. Sustainable Water Supply – Proximity to the Snake River aquifer ensures a consistent water source despite the arid environment.

Famous Vineyards – Notable producers include 3 Horse Ranch Vineyards, Finca Besada Vineyard, and Rolling Hills Vineyard, each contributing to the region's reputation for quality wines

📍 Where It’s Found

🇺🇸 Eagle Foothills AVA – Located in Gem and Ada Counties, Idaho, entirely within the Snake River Valley AVA.

⬆️ Elevation: 2,490–3,412 ft / 759–1,040 m

🌞 Climate: Cool Continental (85–95°F / 29–35°C) – Characterized by hot summers and cool nights, ideal for balanced grape ripening.

🌡️ Historical Temperature Summary: Average summer highs range from 85–95°F (29–35°C), with nighttime lows dropping to 50–60°F (10–16°C).

🔺 Warming Trend: Data on long-term climate trends specific to this AVA is currently limited.

🏛 Notable Producers

  • 3 Horse Ranch Vineyards – Established in 2002, the largest vineyard in the AVA, known for estate-grown wines.

  • Finca Besada Vineyard – A 10-acre estate focusing on sustainable practices and diverse varietals.

  • Rolling Hills Vineyard – Family-run winery emphasizing Rhône and Bordeaux varietals.

🍷 Wines to Try

  • Cabernet Sauvignon – Robust and structured, showcasing the region's potential for bold reds.

  • Syrah – Spicy and full-bodied, reflecting the high desert terroir.

  • Chardonnay – Bright and mineral-driven, expressing the unique soils.

  • Riesling – Crisp and aromatic, benefiting from the cool climate.

  • Viognier – Floral and rich, with notes of stone fruits.

🗺️ To Further Explore

  • Eagle – The southern part of the AVA, home to several pioneering vineyards.

  • Emmett – Northern area with emerging vineyards and unique microclimates.

👅 Flavor & Style

Wines from the Eagle Foothills AVA are known for their vibrant acidity, pronounced aromatics, and mineral complexity.

  • Color: Reds – Deep ruby; Whites – Pale straw.

  • Aromas & Flavors:

    • Primary: Red cherry, raspberry, citrus, and stone fruits.

    • Secondary: Subtle oak, vanilla, and spice notes.

    • Tertiary: Earthiness and complexity with age.

  • Structure:

    • Body: Medium to full.

    • Tannin: Fine-grained and integrated.

    • Acidity: Bright and refreshing.

    • Alcohol: Typically 13–14%.

🛠 Winemaking Notes

Producers in the Eagle Foothills focus on expressing the region's unique terroir:

  • Fermentation: Utilization of native yeasts to enhance complexity.

  • Aging: Combination of French oak barrels, both new and neutral, to add depth.

  • Blending: Emphasis on single-vineyard expressions to showcase site specificity.

  • Sustainability: Commitment to organic and biodynamic farming practices.

🍽 Food Pairing Ideas

Wines from this AVA pair well with dishes that complement their structure and depth:

  • Savory: Grilled salmon, duck confit, wild mushroom risotto.

  • Cheese: Gruyère, aged cheddar, Époisses.

  • Unexpected: Spicy ramen, mole poblano, rosemary shortbread.

📑 Regional Wine Laws

AVA Designation: Established in 2015, encompassing 49,815 acres within the Snake River Valley AVA.

  • Labeling: Wines must contain at least 85% grapes from the AVA to use its designation.

  • Regulations: Focus on maintaining the integrity of the region's unique terroir and promoting sustainable practices.

🔗 Related Topics to Explore

🍇 Cabernet Sauvignon – Robust red varietal thriving in Eagle Foothills.

🍷 Syrah – Spicy red grape expressing the AVA's terroir.

🌱 Sustainable Viticulture – Eco-friendly practices in Eagle Foothills.

🧭 Snake River Valley AVA – The larger AVA encompassing Eagle Foothills.

🤓 Deep Dive Topics