Napa Valley is synonymous with Cabernet Sauvignon. There are folks out there who believe Napa is the only place for Cab. There's another valley, and it's not too far from Napa.
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| On the map of Sonoma and Napa wine regions are Alexander Valley, circled in red, and Napa Valley's Cabernet region, circled in blue from Moon Travel Guides Click on image to enlarge |
Differences between Napa and Alexander Valley
- Napa is glamorous, Alexander Valley has farmers.
- NV is dense with vineyards, tasting rooms, and restaurants.
- AV has a lot of vineyards, not a lot of buildings, food is at the historic Jimtown Store, or you head into the nearest town (Healdsburg or Geyserville).
- NV is crowded with visitors.
- AV can be nearly empty.
- Napa is known for high prices, like $75+ tasting fees and $100+ Cabernet.
- AV still has some tastings under $25, most refund with purchase.
- You can find a few expensive Cabs, but many are in the $50 range.
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| Alexander Valley winery map from Alexander Valley Winegrowers Click on image to enlarge |
Examples of Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
- Alexander Valley Vineyards, Alexander Valley Estate, $28
- deLorimier Winery, Alexander Valley Estate, $56
- Drive Wines, Asti Ridge Vyd Alexander Valley, $55*
- Jordan Winery, Alexander Valley, $60
- Medlock Ames, Bell Mountain Alexander Valley, $70
* Available at the Locals Tasting Room, Geyserville
Other wines Alexander Valley is known for are Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, and Zinfandel.
Other regions known for Cabernet Sauvignon are Paso Robles in Central California and Washington State. These areas have different growing conditions than Sonoma and Napa, so the wines will be different.
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| An autumn day in Alexander Valley |
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