Most Riesling connoisseurs have long considered Germany, specifically the Mosel Valley, as the varietal’s rightful throne. This is probably still true. The Mosel Valley’s unique, steep slopes of sun-absorbing slate have allowed the cool climate of Central-Western Germany to create ideal Riesling wines for over 150 years. But, as Riesling slowly grows in popularity, vintners around the world, the United States included, are giving it a go in new regions and climates. It is no wonder. While the retail sales of Pinot Gris outgrew all other white wines from 2004 until 2007, Riesling has taken that title for the last few years.

Winegrape Lobbyists Go to D.C.

Idaho's Ron Bitner heads low-key Winegrape Growers of America
 by Jane Firstenfeld

Caldwell, Idaho -- In a wine world filled with acronyms, it's hard not to assume we're all conversant with, for instance, WAWGG, WI, TTB, V&E and COLA, to mention a few of the most familiar. So when a press release arrived announcing new board members for the WGA, I wondered, "Who is that?"

Ron Bitner admits wine was the furthest thing from his mind when he purchased the acreage in 1980 for his home near Caldwell, Idaho.

"Bill Broach, the first winemaker for Ste. Chapelle, built his house right below us," Bitner recalls. "I bought the property for the view of the Snake River, and I was scratching my head wondering what I was going to do with this steep hillside.

"It was sagebrush and weeds then, and Bill says to me, 'Ron, you've got a world-class site for Chardonnay there.'"

Welcome to our new website!  That's Lizard Butte over there in the distance.  Pretty obvious why we refer the our place as "The View!"   We love it out here and are looking forward to a visit from you real soon...  Spring has finally arrived, it has been a long winter.  Also new are our bottle labels -- that has been one of our winter projects.