There is something about California wineries that inspires me. i think it is because so much of the area that surrounds San Francisco is so brown that the oasis-like lusciousness of Napa, Sonoma, Russian River Valley and Alexander Valley wineries stands in stark contrast to the surrounding area. Like this picture from Hanna Winery:



I spent a a weekend visiting wineries in Alexander Valley. Alexander Valley is famous primarily for its Zinfandel's, although Sauvignon Blanc does very there as well. I like Zinfandels because many of them pack a kick in the same manner that my beloved Cabernet Franc does. Finding a good, peppery Zinfandel is a real treat for me.

Hanna Winery had a great tasting room with a very knowledgeable staff. The highlights from this winery were their Sauvignon Blanc, which was much lighter both in taste and color than most Sauvignon Blancs I have tried, and the Two Ranch Red.

The Two Ranch Red is a blending of 8 different varietals, the current year is 2002 and after 5 years it has mellowed. The tannins are still present, but not overwhelming, a very enjoyable wine.





Next is Alexander Valley Vineyard, which is about 1/2 mile from Hanna Winery. Alexander Valley Vineyard is famous for their Zinfandels, they are, after all, the home of Sin Zin, Redemption Zin, and Temptation Zin.







The 3 Alexander Valley Vineyards Zinfandels serve as an interesting contrast of the different Zinfandel styles. Temptation Zin is a full-bodied fruity Zinfandel with hints of cocoa. Redemption Zin places more emphasis on the fruit, this creates a much more approachable Zinfandel, while still maintaining a full body. Finally, the most famous of the trio, the Sin Zin. This has a stong peppery taste, with a full-body that stays on your tongue for a long time.

Surprisingly, Alexander Valley also had a Viognier. It was good, but not remarkable, there are certainly better here in Virginia.