Meet the Heart Behind Lopez Vineyards
Sarah Lopez is a name you’ll hear often when you dive into Idaho’s wine scene. As the head winemaker at Lopez Vineyards in Eagle Foothills, she’s crafting some of the region’s most exciting wines, from robust Cabernet Franc to aromatic Viognier. We sat down with Sarah to learn what drives her, how Idaho’s unique landscape shapes her wines, and what’s next for her small but mighty winery. Her passion is infectious, and her story is a testament to why Idaho’s wine country is so special.
Q: What drew you to winemaking in Idaho?
A: I grew up in California’s wine country, but Idaho stole my heart when I visited a decade ago. The Eagle Foothills has this incredible terroir—high elevation, cool nights, and volcanic soils that give grapes such character. Plus, the community here is so genuine. Winemakers share ideas, help each other out—it’s like a big family. I knew this was where I wanted to make my mark.
Q: What’s your favorite part of the process?
A: Harvest is my happy place. There’s this electric energy when we’re out in the vineyard at dawn, picking grapes with the team. The air’s crisp, the grapes are perfect, and you know you’re capturing a moment in time that’ll end up in the bottle. It’s exhausting but pure magic when you taste that first pour from a new vintage.
Q: Any tips for wine newbies?
A: Don’t overthink it! Swirl your glass to release the aromas, take a sip, and let the flavors tell you a story. Ask questions—winemakers love sharing what goes into their craft. And don’t worry about “fancy” terms; just say what you taste. Oh, and always try something new—you might find a grape you didn’t know you loved!
Q: What’s next for Lopez Vineyards?
A: We’re playing with a sparkling wine that’s going to be a game-changer—think crisp, bubbly, and perfect for celebrations. It’s still in the works, but I’m thrilled about our 2026 release. We’re also expanding our vineyard with some new varietals, so stay tuned for more experiments!
Sarah’s love for her craft shines through in every bottle at Lopez Vineyards. Her small-batch approach and dedication to quality make her wines a highlight of any Eagle Foothills tour. Want to meet her and taste her creations? Join our Winemaker Meet & Greet tour for an intimate afternoon with Sarah and other talented vintners. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for Idaho’s wine scene—and maybe a bottle or two to take home!
— faq
Our tours typically include transportation, guided visits to 3-4 wineries, tasting fees, and a knowledgeable guide. Some tours also offer snacks or a light lunch—check your tour details when booking!
Yep, we recommend booking at least a week ahead, especially for private tours or peak season (May-October). Spots fill up fast, so grab yours early!
Absolutely! Let us know when you book, and we’ll work with you to make sure your tour is perfect. From gluten-free snacks to wheelchair-accessible stops, we’ve got you covered.
Dress comfy but classy—think layers for Idaho’s weather, which can change fast. Closed-toe shoes are a good idea for vineyard walks, and don’t forget sunscreen!