Gem 73 Winery

Gem 73 Winery in Caldwell, Idaho’s Sunnyslope wine-growing area, brings together founders Joel and Teresa Poppen, winemaker and architect Greg Koenig, and vineyard owners Jay and Shelly Hawkins. Its roots are at Lanae Ridge Vineyard, where conversations among friends on the back deck provide the starting point for a winery built around taking time together. The name carries that idea: “73” is a radio operator’s sign-off meaning “all the best.”

Lanae Ridge gives the project plenty to work with: 15 grape varieties grow across steep slopes with sandy, chalky soils. Plantings date to 2016, with later phases in 2023 and 2024. Syrah, Tempranillo, Sangiovese and Nebbiolo share the property with Cabernet Sauvignon, Mourvèdre, Viognier and other varieties. Hands-on farming supports a hands-off approach in the cellar. Soil sensors guide drip irrigation, owl and kestrel boxes encourage natural pest control, and rooftop solar supplies most of the vineyard and winery’s energy needs.

The tasting room at 21254 Chalk Hills Lane welcomes both reservations and walk-ins, with an emphasis on unhurried tastings rather than wine expertise. Visitors interested in the work behind the bottles can arrange vineyard and cellar tours by contacting the winery. Cactus Butte, the property’s highest point, is a short walk from the winery with views across the valley.