Alexander Valley

One of the warmest AVAs in Sonoma County, Alexander Valley stretches from the banks of the Russian River into the foothills of the Mayacamas mountain range. Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot are the main grapes here, creating voluptuously full-bodied wines with distinct notes of cassis, roast plum and even chocolate. They are more fruit forward than the earthy reds of Napa. For white wines, Alexander Valley offers big and bold Chardonnay. These are often aged with oak for a buttery vanilla flavor, and those grown nearest the Russian River have a noticeable minerality. Other grapes that thrive in the valley's balmy climate are Sauvignon Blanc and Zinfandel.