Leslie Preston

Founder & Winemaker

A wanderlust-filled chapter unfolded during my time as an exchange student and English teacher in various regions of France, where the simple joys of life, entwined with the sacred rituals of breaking bread and sipping wine, became my muse. Inspired, I pursued studies in French Literature, seeking to weave the beauty I encountered into my daily existence. Yet, after years immersed in academia, the realization dawned that my true calling lay elsewhere.

As a graduate student at U.C. Davis, my path took an unexpected turn. Teaching French classes to pay the bills, I was introduced to students from the Viticulture and Enology program learning the language in preparation for internships in France. A realization struck – a more fitting opportunity to reignite the passion from my years in France emerged. Albeit, requiring a return to square one as I had no scientific background, I finally emerged with an M.S. in Enology.

I assumed my wine career would develop in California after having opportunities in regions like Sonoma, Carneros, and Napa Valley, working with renowned names such as Clos du Bois, Saintsbury, and Stags' Leap Winery. Family life led to a hiatus, but the desire to reconnect with my Idaho roots lingered. For years, I hauled Idaho fruit to the Napa Valley, again never expecting to leave California. However, a move back to Boise in 2012 marked a pivotal moment, anchoring my commitment to pursue my passion seriously.

The Coiled brand germinated during my tenancy at Cinder and then Telaya, before finding a space of my own at 34th and Chinden in Garden City. A recent remodel transformed the front of the building into our vibrant tasting room, fostering collaboration with local artists, musicians, chefs, and farmers. This evolution reflects our commitment to crafting more than wine – a holistic experience where every sip tells a tale of resilience, passion, and a homecoming to Idaho's winemaking heritage. Welcome to the heart of Coiled Wines.

Coiled wines

Coiled Wines is a tribute to Idaho's inaugural grape-growing American Viticultural Area (AVA), the Snake River Valley. Originating with the 2008 Syrah release, our journey began with a modest 380 cases, blossoming into a 2,000-case collection. Crafted entirely from Idaho grapes, our portfolio boasts the Dry Riesling, Sidewinder (Syrah blend), Black Mamba (Petit Verdot blend), Rizza (Sparkling Brut Riesling), Chablis-style Chardonnay, and Petite Sirah (sourced from Calistoga, CA). Every drop of Coiled wine embodies a vine-to-wine commitment, all nurtured under our roof.

The Story behind the name “coiled”

The name “Coiled” draws inspiration from the captivating Snake River Valley, a picturesque tapestry winding through southwestern Idaho. Shaped by volcanic forces and ancient floods, the valley's soils blend lava rock and lake sediment, fostering grapes of unparalleled character. With a dry climate and elevated terrains, this geological marvel yields the grapes that breathe life into our exceptional wines. Welcome to a taste of Idaho's vinicultural legacy – where Coiled Wines captures the essence of a truly unique terroir.

TRANSLATIONS

Two labels under one roof

Introducing Translations: Our second label, with just over 1,000 cases and counting. We scout budding wines from neighboring regions, masterfully blend and refine them, and then bottle up the magic. Offering a diverse range of styles and prices, it's our way of expanding horizons for our wine-loving tribe.

Coiled, our OG label, is where it all began. From vine to bottle, every drop is meticulously crafted under my watchful eye. I'm hands-on from grapevine whispers to final bottling.

Translations, our rebellious sister label, lets us unleash even more tantalizing wines without compromising on quality. No extra cellar hands for me, thank you. Instead, I handpick gems from other wineries, infuse them with our signature flair, and voilà—a sip-worthy masterpiece. From playful names to eye-catching labels, every bottle tells a tale of discovery and delight.