Alexander Valley

Alexander Valley offers what many consider Sonoma's finest Cabernet Sauvignon—wines of power and richness that mature faster and cost less than their Napa neighbors. This warm, inland valley follows the Russian River north from Healdsburg, protected from coastal fog by the Mayacamas Mountains. The terroir here favors Bordeaux varieties. Warm days promote full ripeness, while cool nights from marine air funneling up the river preserve freshness. The benchland vineyards on the valley's sides—elevated above the fog line—produce the most structured wines. Alexander Valley Cabernets are known for their approachability. Where Napa wines often demand a decade of cellaring, Alexander Valley delivers ripe, plush fruit with softer tannins from the start. Think cassis, black cherry, and chocolate rather than austere tannins. The region also excels with Merlot, Chardonnay, and old-vine Zinfandel. Producers like Silver Oak (which built its empire on Alexander Valley fruit), Jordan, and Stonestreet demonstrate the valley's Cabernet credentials, while smaller estates explore the diversity of benchland and hillside sites.