2018 Roghani Vineyards – Stop the Presses!!
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Background
Roghani Vineyards entered the 7th Annual International Cabernet Franc Competition this year for the first time. Roghani Vineyards is in Caldwell, Idaho. In speaking with Denise Kulm, she mentioned that they make an exquisite Cabernet Sauvignon, if I would be interested in reviewing it. Agreeing to do so, I was more acknowledging their participation in the Cabernet Franc Competition as I had only tasted one other Idaho wine which was good but not something to shout about from the mountain tops. That has now all changed!!
The Wine – “Wine is bottled poetry” – Robert Louis Stevenson
Photo ©Michael Kelly
One of the first items in understanding why this wine is so unbelievably great is to comprehend the soil conditions of Snake River Valley, Idaho. The Snake River Plain was formed from lava flows of Basalt and silica rich Rhyolite twice during a 17-million-year span! The fertile soil of the valley contributes in unique ways to the vineyards’ production.
First on the eyes, this wine is full bodied with cavernous deep dark red coloring in the glass. Upon removing the cork, the aroma was nothing ordinary with richness and dark fruits wafting into the senses. Immediately, the wine received my attention with admiration. On the palate, blackberries, plum and black cherries frolicked happily in the mouth and only being checked by earthy mineral notes. A modicum of new leather and soft vanilla pipe tobacco was also noted. The tannins were notched, noticeable upon each sip, but shortly and quietly rested, being velvety and delicious. The finish was long and enjoyable, dry and with balanced acidity.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Personally, as a judge in a blind competition, this wine is the closest I have ever tasted that could pass as a premier Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon! That simply stated is how solid this wine is. The wine came in at 15.1% alcohol. The price for this wine at Roghani’s Restaurant (inside Chateau des Fleurs) is $64/bottle. It is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. The restaurant is about two miles east of Homedale in Canyon County.
Koenig Winery makes their wines and for this vintage only 213 cases were produced. The wine was aged 30 months in 70% new French oak barrels. This wine won Double Gold Medal and Best Cabernet Sauvignon at the Idaho Wine Competition.
Not only will this make my list for Best Wines Tasted in 2026 (less than 3% of 1800 wines tasted), and it also received my highest rating score.
The Food and Wine Pairing – “Food without wine is a corpse; wine without food is a ghost. United and well matched, they are as body and soul: living partners” – Andre Simon
Photo ©Michael Kelly
With a quick break in the weather, the BBQ was heated on infra-red burners to 1500° to sear seasoned filet mignon steaks. A beautiful finish on the outside and medium-rare on the inside. Served with Blue cheese crumbles on top. Accompanied by fresh asparagus and sauteed gnocchi in butter and olive oil. A fresh garden salad was served with Blue cheese dressing and crumbles. A delicious meal to complement this outstanding wine. Truly a wonderful food and wine pairing with the flavor profile and tannins being great companions with the meal.
The Winery / Restaurant
Photo from Roghani’s website
One of the unique challenges of acquiring this wine is that it is only sold at Roghani’s Restaurant and at Chateau des Fleurs in Eagle, Idaho. The restaurant offers fine dining with a fusion of European cuisine (French, Italian, Greek) and Persian flavors. The restaurant is also known for their farm to table foods using their own gardens.
Graph from https://pubs.usgs.gov/
The vineyard was acquired in 2005 and produces besides the Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Riesling, a late harvest Riesling, Shiraz/Syrah blend, Chardonnay, Merlot and a few others. The operation is tied to the Roghani family’s Camille Beckman company.
By the way, their Cabernet Franc won Gold Medals at the 7th Annual International Cabernet Franc Competition from both the Professional Judges and the People’s Choice Judges.
Sláinte,
Michael Kelly