Sawtooth Winery

Idaho is a state known for its dramatic mountains, wild, scenic rivers, clear lakes and perhaps even their potatoes. However, you may not know that this adventurists’ playground is also a great wine growing region. Then again, it’s not surprising that grapes would thrive among the high vineyard elevations, extra long hours of daylight, cool nights and fertile soil.

This 100 percent Syrah opens with mature, old world aromas of spice, black pepper, mint and earthy ripe berries. On the palate the texture is soft and fleshy, but far from lazy. Notes of plum, blackberry and a hint of vanilla spice complement the natural Idaho acidity. Comfortable, approachable and even outdoorsy- this well balanced wine vividly reflects the environment from where it came.

Sawtooth Winery, formerly known as Pintler Cellars, started as a fifteen-acre vineyard in the heart of the Canyon County region of Idaho's Snake River Valley. The vineyards were once rich pastures before being planted with vinifera in 1982. The Sawtooth wines wear a nostalgic label that depicts a fly fisherman on the Snake River with the striking Sawtooth Mountains rising above him. If the image isn’t enough to entice you, the wine surely is.

Reviewed August 19, 2007 by Tasting Panel.