Alexander Valley Struts its Stuff on Weekend “Taste”

“It’s all like, Dry Creek this and Dry Creek that,” complains Alexander. “What about me? When do I get my moment in the sun?”

Saturday and Sunday this weekend (May 18-19) it’s your time to shine, Alexander Valley, and come out as the perfect blend of charm, sophistication and easy confidence you are. We’re not talking about the people, though we could be, but the grapes. And the terrific wines they produce.

Cabernet Sauvignon rules here –Silver Oak Winery grows their celebrated wines only in the Napa and Alexander Valleys. But the Chardonnay has a reputation too, with the Robert Young Clone a notable example. The gravelly loam soils straddling the river also encourages Sauvignon Blanc and Merlot to flourish, but it’s easy to find old-vine Zinfandel and newer Rhone varieties, including Syrah and Viognier.

The scenery of Alexander Valley is equally impressive. From the rolling Tuscan hills view from Hanna, the side roads lined with olive trees, the Jimtown Store the very incarnation of throw-back charm. With the impressively resurrected Sode Rock Winery standing like the Alamo amid the vineyards, to Geyserville and beyond - the appellation stretches to the Mendocino County border above Cloverdale.

Over 30 wineries will take part by hosting their own wine and food parties, with live entertainment and special weekend wine discounts. One ticket gets you access to all the celebrations to experience the casually elegant wine country lifestyle of Alexander Valley.

The site Taste Alexander Valley tells it all. Choose from about 20 starting wineries to pick up your pass and glass, then tour and taste, compare and contrast. Two-day tickets are $65 in advance, $75 at the door. Sunday only are $45 in advance, $55 at the door. Designated driver tickets available at discount.

The brochure for the event, with participating wineries and their menus, is attached to this article as a PDF, as is a winery map of the Alexander Valley.