The Wild Fighter - Alexander Valley - Cabernet Sauvignon
Description
The majority of Alexander Valley's vineyards are on the benchlands on the eastern side of the river, where the southwesterly aspect and alluvial gravel soils provide an excellent terroir for Cabernet Sauvignon. The valley is warmer than other parts of Sonoma due to its inland location, although cool winds and fog still make their way up the Russian river from the Pacific ocean via the Petaluma Gap. During the growing season, the days are warm and dry, with the southwest-facing vineyards angled perfectly toward the afternoon sun. The nights are cooled by the wind and fog, which slows ripening and ensures the grapes retain acidity as they develop sugars and varietal character. Outside of Napa, Alexander Valley is one of the most important regions for Cabernet Sauvignon in California, and as a result, some of the state's most famous wine producers have vineyards here.