The namesake comes from Cyrus Alexander who left his Pennsylvania home to venture west. He tried his hand at fur trapping in the Rockies and then entered the rush for gold in California in the early 1800’s. On a trip to Northern California, he landed in the valley then known as the ‘ranchos’ where he was soon to put down roots. It was situated east of the Russian River that was fed from a northern watershed, a great source of life and perfect for farming his grapes he was soon to plant. To the west was the Mayacamas mountains, magic scenery that was to be the backdrop to his grape growing adventure. Nearby Fort Ross had been growing grapes for years. Cyrus took advantage of that and bought some clippings to start his vineyard. Alexander Vineyards is the original homestead of Cyrus Alexander. 

Alexander valley became an AVA or designated appellation in 1984. It had a rich history until then and is one of the most beautiful valleys in the northern California grape consortium. Healdsburg would be considered the flagship town, another gem of this valley and well worth visiting… if you get a chance when out wine tasting. 

Although Cabernet Sauvignon seems to be the most popular variety, this area also is a great venue for many varietals like Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, Merlot and whites like Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling and Gewürztraminer. The coastal breezes and occasional fog belt form a cooling pattern in the mornings and at night. These temperamental varieties hang a little better here than in the much hotter Napa Valley.