Koenig Vineyards was founded in 1995 with a vision to handcraft small-lot wines from Idaho’s Sunny Slope District, using traditional European winemaking methods and locally grown fruit. From the beginning, Koenig became known for thoughtful, expressive wines rooted in the volcanic and alluvial soils of the Snake River Valley.

Today, Koenig Vineyards is owned and led by James and Sydney Nederend, a husband-and-wife team deeply connected to Idaho agriculture, vineyard stewardship, and the future of Idaho wine. Their story with Koenig began through SCORIA Vineyards, their estate vineyard planted in the volcanic soils of Sunnyslope. In 2015, SCORIA became a custom crush partner at Koenig, beginning a relationship that would eventually grow into something much larger.

James worked closely with founder Greg Koenig and learned the traditional, old-world style of winemaking that helped define the Koenig name. When James and Sydney purchased Koenig in 2019, they stepped into the role of carrying that legacy forward while bringing their own energy, vineyard focus, and long-term vision to the winery.

Together, they are building on Koenig’s history while shaping its future. Their work is rooted in family, farming, and a shared belief that Idaho wines deserve to stand proudly on their own. Koenig remains dedicated to producing wines from Idaho fruit, honoring the craftsmanship that came before, and continuing to tell the story of this remarkable wine region through every bottle.

Head Winemaker — James Nederend

James Nederend’s approach to winemaking is rooted in traditional old-world techniques, thoughtful vineyard stewardship, and a deep respect for Idaho-grown fruit. Blending classic winemaking philosophy with modern vineyard practices, he continues to refine and elevate the quality and expression of Koenig wines.

At the heart of Koenig’s philosophy is a simple belief: exceptional wines begin in exceptional vineyards. Through decades of trusted grower relationships and careful farming practices, every bottle of Koenig wine is proudly sourced from Idaho’s Snake River Valley.

For James, winemaking is deeply connected to family, farming, and the land itself. Together with Sydney and their three young daughters, the Nederend family is shaping the next chapter of Koenig with a long-term commitment to craftsmanship, authenticity, and the future of Idaho wine.