In the rolling hills of Idaho’s Treasure Valley, the next chapter of the state’s wine story is being written—not by newcomers, but by the children of those who helped pioneer Idaho’s modern wine industry.
As Idaho’s wine community comes of age, a new wave of second-generation leaders is taking root. They’re stepping into cellars, vineyards, and family businesses—sometimes alongside their parents, others forging their own paths.
At Williamson Orchards & Vineyards in Caldwell, cousins Beverly, Mike, and Patrick Williamson represent the fourth generation of their family to farm this land. What began over a century ago as a fruit and dairy farm, has become one of Idaho’s most respected vineyard operations. Today, the trio manages the business, the vines, and the brand with an eye toward both innovation and sustainability. Their Albariño and Syrah are now among the state’s most awarded wines.
“I love what I do, but I also take my role very seriously,” says Beverly Williamson. “We measure our decisions against the ruler of sustainability—for the land and for future generations. Like the grapevine, we try to honor strong roots while staying flexible, experimenting with new varietals and techniques as the world around us changes.”
Nearby, Huston Vineyards has undergone its own quiet evolution. Jacob and Joshua Alger—sons of founders Gregg and Mary—now lead winemaking and vineyard operations. Their teamwork has expanded Huston’s estate program and grown the reach of its popular Chicken Dinner series.
“Stepping into my role as winemaker has been both empowering and deeply meaningful,” says Jacob Alger. “This is a true family business—every day, I get to collaborate with my parents and brother on something we’re all passionate about. “I’ve brought my own style to the cellar while staying true to our mission of crafting world-class wines.”
In Kuna, Indian Creek Winery thrives under the leadership of Tammy Stowe McClure, daughter of founders Bill and Mui Stowe. She now runs the business with her husband, winemaker Mike McClure, continuing a family legacy that helped shape Idaho wine from the very beginning.
And then there’s the spirited Robertson sisters of Hells Canyon Winery. They now lead the family’s dual labels: Hells Canyon, alongside their dad, and the playful Zhoo Zhoo Wines, their own label.
“Bijou, Jocelyn, and I created Zhoo Zhoo Wines as a fresh, modern extension of Hells Canyon," says Hadley Robertson. “It was a way to diversify the brand while staying rooted in our family’s legacy. I lead operations with a focus on creativity—using social media, hosting events, and building experiences around the vineyard and winery that go beyond wine itself.”
This new generation isn’t just preserving family legacies—they’re shaping the future of Idaho wine with vision, creativity, and a deep connection to the land.