Alexander Valley
The Alexander Valley is one of the oldest wine-growing regions of Sonoma County; grapes were first planted here by immigrant families in the 1850s, as the historic markers in the family cemetery plot behind Alexander Valley winery attest. But the area has recently become an important source of high-end boutique wines, thanks to the emergence of Kendall-Jackson, Chateau Souverain and Jordan Vineyards. The vineyards that blanket the valley floor and terrace up the hillsides are planted in cabernet, zinfandel, and sauvignon blanc. The rolling, picturesque roads of the Alexander Valley are popular with cyclists, who favor Red Winery Road, a quiet, flat and virtually traffic free route through oak-dotted hills and miles of vineyards. You'll always spot crowds of cyclists savoring the colorful ambiance-- not to mention the fabulous food- at the Jimtown Store. Alexander Valley is also one of the most densely planted of all Sonoma County's AVAs. Viticulture has existed in Alexander Valley since the 1850s but its more recent success is due to the emergence of Simi Winery, Gallo Winery, and Kendall-Jackson in the region. Even more recently, the region has moved away from its bulk/jug wine past and toward critically acclaimed wines from the likes of Chateau Souverain and Jordan Vineyards. Chocolatey, warm Cabernet Sauvignon is the leading varietal in Alexander Valley, followed by Sauvignon Blanc and Zinfandel. Neighboring Alexander Valley to the east is Knights Valley. Protected from direct Pacific Ocean influence, Knights Valley is the warmest viticulture area in Sonoma County. Cabernet Sauvignon is the main varietal in Knights Valley, but the warm climate provides ideal conditions for growing Bordeaux grape varieties in addition to Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Viognier.