If done right, Idaho wine can be world-class. Such is the case with one of the most scenic wineries that you will find in the Pacific Northwest — Rivaura. Set on a stunning riverfront location just outside of Lewiston, Idaho, on the Clearwater River, it was back in 2014 that Rivaura founders Ron Hewett, Sr., along with his sons Ron, Jr., and Reece Hewett, founded this winery. For more than 60 years, this family has grown up along the banks of the Clearwater River in the Lewis-Clark Valley, just a tad east of Lewiston, Idaho at Arrow near Juliaetta, Idaho. Prior to stating their winery the Hewetts talked to Kevin Pogue, PhD, RG, of VinTerra Consulting who confirmed that their site was perfect for grape growing.
I am so impressed with the new wines by Rivaura. Billo Naravane, MW, of Rasa Vineyards fame, has crafted another outstanding range of wines for Rivaura, coming from the very challenging 2020 vintage. A killer value is the 2020 Rivaura ‘River Ranch Red’ Red Wine (OB, 91) which shows good richness and flavor complexity. I adored the new 2020 Rivaura ‘Reserve’ Syrah (OB, 93) which shows very unique terroir and plenty of dense dark fruits with savory notes. This is delicious wine to consume now and over the next ten years. Learn more about this really exciting new Idaho wine project at rivaura.com and here are my reviews of the new Rivaura wines.
2020 Rivaura Merlot- The 2020 Rivaura Merlot is an excellent effort from this challenging vintage. Ripe black plum, cigar box and anise notes mark the nose. The palate is soft and refined with a silky texture and plenty of weight. Layers of kirsch and black raspberry dominance, with salty undertones, as this beauty is best enjoyed now and over the next few years. Drink 2023-2028- 92
2020 Rivaura ‘Reserve’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2020 ‘Reserve’ comes from the north blocks of the vineyard that is a combination of three clonal selection Cabernet Sauvignon. This is marvelously concentrated and silky with a refined texture. The wine comes off very clean despite the obvious challenges of the vintage. Cloves and mocha tones combine with shades of black licorice, cigar box and black currants on the palate. Complex and delicious, this is drinking marvelously now so I see no reason to cellar. Drink 2023-2029- 94
2020 Rivaura ‘Insomniac’ Red Wine- The outstanding 2020 ‘Insomnia’ is sourced from the southern portion of the Rivaura Vineyard. This vintage blends mostly Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot with Cabernet Franc, and a touch of Petit Verdot. This was stored in 55% new French oak for eighteen months prior to bottling bottling, and opens with black currant cordial, tar, espresso grounds and creme de violette on the palate. Full-bodied and delicious, enjoy this outstanding wine now and over the next few years. Drink 2023-2030- 94