There is little doubt that Idaho's Lake City is home to one of the best producers of Rhone varieties in the Northwest. Why Coeur d'Alene Cellars belongs in that discussion - and rates as Wine Press Northwest's 2010 Idaho Winery of the Year - deserves some explanation. "It does create a bit of confusion sometimes being an Idaho winery with Washington grapes," said Kimber Gates, co-owner and general manager of Coeur d'Alene Cellars/Eric Degerman, Wine Press Northwest. More here. (SR File Photo: Jesse Tinsley)

DFO: I have 2 strong ties to wine. I enjoy drinking it (in moderation, of course). And my sister was and remains the first female vice president of a large, central California winery.

Question: Which wine, including brand, is your favorite?