Alexander Valley terrain is not only suited to Cabernet Sauvignon; many different grapes are grown in this densely planted wine region. Part of the reason for this diversity is the complex geological makeup of Alexander Valley Wine Country. There are literally hundreds of different soil types in the region.

The history of European settlement in Alexander Valley began in 1844. In this year, Cyrus Alexander began developing a tract of land for Captain Henry Delano. A lot has happened since then, but Alexander Valley Wineries have never lost their rural heritage.

Orchards on the flatlands of the valley on both sides of the Russian River have given way to the vineyards of dozens of wineries and small grape growers. Just thirty miles inland from the Pacific Ocean, the valley floor is blessed with deep, sandy loam where vigorous vines produce rich, herbal Chardonnays and Sauvignon Blanc grapes. On the north end, vineyards on rocky, volcanic hillsides catch the breeze and the sun in their own micro-climate, which is perfect for Cabernet, Merlot and Sangiovese grapes. Cool air currents from the Russian River, and through the Healdsburg “gap” from the ocean, lower summertime temperatures at night, extending the growing season and resulting in high acidity and fruit-forward flavors.

Wine Regions Represented by MDM

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