A bold, full-throttle red from Idaho’s Snake River Valley, the 2021 Koenig Cuvée is a powerhouse blend of Zinfandel, Syrah, and Sangiovese—richly textured, deeply fruited, and built to impress.
Taste
Dark and brooding, this red blend showcases flavors of blackberry compote, leather, cocoa, and a touch of earthy spice. The Syrah adds savory depth and structure, while the Sangiovese lifts the blend with a subtle brightness. Full-bodied and concentrated, it finishes long and expansive with a lingering warmth and grip from 30 months in American and French oak.
About the Winery/Winemaker
Founded in 1995 by brothers Greg and Andy Koenig and now under the stewardship of James and Sydney Nederend of SCORIA, Koenig Vineyards has helped define premium Idaho wine. Their Cuvée Snake River pulls from some of the region’s top vineyard sites—including Koenig Estate, Lanae Ridge, and Williamson—where sand, gravel, and volcanic soils give rise to expressive, bold reds. This bottling exemplifies their commitment to traditional European winemaking paired with Snake River Valley character.
Why We Love It
This is Idaho red wine at its most serious. With high-elevation vineyards and extended barrel aging, the 2021 Cuvée balances muscle with polish. It’s an ideal bottle for bold red lovers looking for something off the beaten path—but with all the structure and flavor of a big California blend.
Technical Wine Notes
Origin: Snake River Valley AVA, Idaho
Varietals: 70% Zinfandel, 30% Syrah, 10% Sangiovese
Vineyards: Koenig Estate, Lanae Ridge, Williamson Vineyard
Soil: Sand, gravel, and volcanic loam
Aging: Aged 30 months in small French and American oak barrels
Alcohol: 15.4% ABV
Style: Full-bodied, bold and structured, dark-fruited and earthy