Alexander Valley, CA — April 2026 — This April, Alexander Valley Winegrowers invite wine lovers—both new and experienced—to slow down, sip freely, and reconnect with the heart of wine country during TASTE Alexander Valley: Back to Our Roots, a month-long celebration of wine, hospitality, and genuine connection.  Running throughout the entire month of April, TASTE Alexander Valley offers a rare opportunity to experience the region without the usual barriers of tasting fees. Participating wineries will provide complimentary tastings, welcoming guests to explore at their own pace while engaging directly with the growers, winemakers, and owners who define Alexander Valley.  “TASTE Alexander Valley is about removing the barriers that often keep people from exploring wine,” said Jessie Vallery, Executive Director of Alexander Valley Winegrowers. “Whether you’re just starting to learn about wine, or you love tasting but are tired

Afternoon Brief, December 29th

Bob Benziger, Former Partner and Hospitality Director at Benziger Family Winery, Remembered as Kind, Genuine: Robert “Bob” Benziger, former partner and hospitality director at Benziger Family Winery in Glen Ellen, died Friday, Dec. 23 after suffering a heart attack at home. He was 70 years old...

Harvest Terroir Challenge 2020 The annual Harvest Terroir Challenge is the only wine competition that judges entries entirely by AVA, taking into account the unique properties that make up each winegrowing region. Entries that best exemplify the soil and climate of their respective viticultural areas are recognized and rewarded for their ability to convey the essence of that AVA. Winning wines are akin to “terroir ambassadors,” helping to define what makes each AVA unique and compelling. This is your chance to show how your wines stack up to others in your winegrowing area. Winning a Best of Region in the Harvest Terroir Challenge garners huge bragging rights at the national and regional level. A Gold medal here not only gives your winery additional prestige and selling power, it boosts regional recognition and enhances the conversation around what makes your dirt special. LAURA Ness - Wine Writer Laura Ness is a longtime wine journalist, columnist and judge w