Alexander Valley AVA

Located north of Healdsburg in Sonoma County
Covers a broad expanse of land east of the Russian River consisting of the watershed that runs southeast from the Mendocino County line down to the boundaries of the Chalk Hill AVA
The Russian River flows down the valley, surrounded by vineyards on both sides
It is the largest and most fully planted wine region in Sonoma
Granted AVA status in 1984; expanded in 1990 and again in 2001
One of the warmest areas in Northern California during the day but a night experiences a wide diurnal temperature variation that cools vineyard conditions
The hillsides just northeast of Healdsburg block the coastal fogs that cover most of Sonoma County, which allows Alexander Valley to keep a little warmer than some of its neighbors
Wines in the region are very approachable in their youth and may not have the same aging potential as other AVAs in the region (Napa or Sonoma)
Noted for the quality of it Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot
Other notable varietals include Chardonnay, Gewurztraminer, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Zinfandel, Nebbiolo and Sangiovese