Alexander Valley Alexander Valley
With 15,000 acres of vineyard, the large Alexander Valley appellation lies east of the Dry Creek Valley in Sonoma's northern end. It encompasses the alluvial plain of the Russian River, which runs through the appellation, as well as the slopes of the mountains separating Alexander Valley from Napa Valley. Largely sheltered from Pacific breezes, Alexander Valley enjoys a hot climate. The Russian River brings just enough coastal fog into the region each night to temper the heat and give the grapes ample time to develop.
As is typical of Sonoma, the Alexander Valley sees most of its rainfall in the winter and spring, giving it a long growing season and dry conditions for harvest. The valley plain has mostly well-draining alluvial soils, while the hillside vineyards have less fertile volcanic soils. We use grapes from the Alexander Valley's hillside vineyards for our Frei Brothers Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, because the unique combination of soil and climate gives the wine unparalleled complexity and flavor concentration.
