6-Course
Chef’s Wine Dinner

A Family Winery Rooted in Alexander Valley

Alexander Valley Vineyards sits on the historic Wetzel Family Estate in northern Sonoma County, where the family’s story began in 1962 with the purchase of a portion of the original Cyrus Alexander homestead.

The family planted premium grape varieties when vineyards were still relatively uncommon in the valley, and Hank and Linda Wetzel founded the winery in 1975. Today, the estate spans more than 700 acres, with vineyards stretching across varied soils, elevations, and microclimates between the Russian River and the Mayacamas Mountains.

Warm days followed by dramatically cooler nights help shape wines known for elegance, balance, and distinctive varietal character. Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, and Zinfandel are among the varieties at the heart of the estate.

More than five decades after its first vintage, Alexander Valley Vineyards remains family owned and operated, with third and fourth generations continuing the traditions established on the property.

Meet Robert Wetzel

For Robert Wetzel, Alexander Valley Vineyards has always been more than a winery—it is where he grew up.

The third-generation family partner spent his childhood among the vineyards and has worked throughout the family business, from pruning vines and helping during harvest to working in the cellar, on the bottling line, and in the winery office.

After graduating from the University of Southern California, Robert joined the family business full time and went on to oversee sales throughout the Midwest and across the country. Today, as National & International Sales Director, he represents Alexander Valley Vineyards throughout the United States and abroad.

That lifetime of firsthand experience gives Robert a rare perspective on the vineyards, wines, people, and family history behind every bottle—and we’re excited to have him share those stories around the Chef’s Table.