The Story Behind Laissez-Faire Wine Co.
For Melanie, wine has always been tied to family, flavor, and a love of sharing food. She recalls growing up in Boise, helping her parents in the garden, canning foods, and paying close attention to flavors. After studying at Washington State University and diving into the Washington wine industry, she learned from some of the region’s best winemakers.
When she and her husband, Joe, returned to Boise in 2006, they started working with Cinder Winery, sourcing grapes from local vineyards. In 2012, she had the idea for Laissez-Faire Wine Co.: a label that would focus on wines that felt relaxed, approachable, and delicious, capturing the joy of drinking wine without any intimidation. Years later, the vision expanded into creating their wine bar, a place where every glass tells its own story.
What Makes Them Different in Boise’s Wine Scene
Laissez-Faire Wine Co. stands out because they’ve removed the barriers that sometimes come with wine culture. Their wines are high-quality but priced so everyone can enjoy them. Melanie explains, “At Laissez Faire, price isn't a barrier to enjoying quality. You won't find anything this handcrafted, creative, tasty, and yet affordable in the Treasure Valley. It's like happy hour pricing all the time.”
Their wines are also intensely local. While their flagship winery (Cinder) makes many wines, the grapes are sourced from the Treasure Valley and nearby regions. This local-first approach gives their wines a true Idaho identity. Every sip is tied back to the community, from partnerships with nearby vineyards to featuring beers from local brewers.
And, of course, they never forget the fun. Laissez-Faire is designed as a place to come with friends, taste something new, and feel entirely at home.
A Visit to Laissez-Faire: What to Expect
Walking into Laissez-Faire Wine Co. feels like stepping into a mix of European elegance and Idaho warmth. Their wine bar is inviting, with a friendly staff ready to guide guests through wine flights, bottles, or even their rotating beer list.
On sunny days, you can relax on their outdoor plaza with views of the Boise River, or cozy up inside with a glass and some locally sourced food pairings. They even feature artisanal items like bread and cheese to round out the experience. Whether it’s your first time trying wine or you’re already a connoisseur, their approachable atmosphere makes everyone feel welcome.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Laissez-Faire Wine Co.
Melanie and Joe's dream for Laissez-Faire goes beyond wine. Their vision is to create a gathering place where neighbors meet neighbors, friendships grow, and community thrives. Seasonal celebrations and events, from free music Saturdays to festive Halloween costume parties, are a big part of that mission.
As they look toward the future, Laissez-Faire plans to expand their offerings, from new wine releases to more local partnerships. But at the core, their mission remains the same: to share wines that feel good, taste amazing, and bring people together.
Discover Laissez-Faire with Totally Boise
Ready to sip something special? Visit Laissez-Faire Wine Co. and experience one of Boise’s most welcoming wine spots. Every glass has a story worth sharing, from local roots to European-inspired flavors.
Stay tuned with Totally Boise for more community spotlights, and be sure to share your Laissez-Faire moments with us; we love seeing how locals celebrate Boise life.