* ICONIC: A person or thing widely admired, having influence
in a specific sphere, serving as a symbol of something important.
The story of Alexander Valley Vineyards (also known as AVV) is iconic. It is a story of vision, a pioneering spirit, dedication, experimentation, and passion. It is the story of Harry and Maggie Wetzel, who purchased property in Alexander Valley in 1962. Their young children grew up among the vines, especially their son Hank, who knew early on that he had a calling to the earth and its bounty. Hank’s parents purchased the land in 1962, but AVV’s present story began in 1975, when the winery was built, and is now celebrating its 50th anniversary of producing award-winning wines, being innovators, leaders, and always continuing to look toward the future.
Hank and Linda Wetzel with their sons, Harry Wetzel IV, Director of Operations Robert Wetzel, National Sales Director
Looking at the Past and to Tomorrow
Looking back to when Harry and Maggie purchased what was then agricultural property, it was a precursor to Hank’s eventual wine-growing vision. Harry recognized this area from his worldwide travels as one that could produce world-class wine grapes, and he lost no time, planting vineyards in 1963 – there were fewer than a handful of grape growers then. Still, Harry had a vision, and by 1966, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, and Chenin Blanc, in addition to other varieties, were being planted.
Hank, from childhood, was instantly enthralled by the vineyards. No matter what the task was, he was involved, literally from the ground up, working, learning by constant on-the-job training. No one told or asked him to be so involved, it was just part of who he was becoming. There was never a thought of “what do I want to be when I grow up,” for Hank, he knew. He inherited his parents’ work ethic and couldn’t be kept out of the vineyard. Over the years, Hank has held almost every position at the winery.
Hank went on to college, graduating from the University of California at Davis with a BS in Fermentation Science in 1974 while working summers at various wineries (including Freemark Abbey and Hanzell).
For his senior project at UCD, Hank undertook a challenging endeavor, developing plans for a small winery that would become AVV. Following graduation, this was Hank’s focus. Hank built and supervised every aspect of what would become Alexander Valley Vineyards Winery, completing this in time for AVV’s first crush in 1975.
The original Alexander Valley schoolhouse on the Alexander Valley Vineyards property
The winery was built, and wines were sold, one bottle at a time, personally by Hank and his wife, Linda, who have established relationships in every state and many countries where AVV wines were sold then, and are sold now, which 50 years ago was “tomorrow.”
Hank with his sister Katie Wetzel Murphy during Phase 1 cave construction in 1997 – AVV has the largest underground wine caves in Sonoma
AVV occupies a special place in the history of Sonoma County wine growing, as does Hank Wetzel, recently honored by the Sonoma County Vintners as their 2025 “Sonoma County Icon.”
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Visit AVV for a Look Back and a Look Forward
So much has changed, yet remained the same since Hank’s parents first purchased a plot of land in Alexander Valley. A visit to this historic property blends history, vision, and award-winning wines into an extraordinary experience.
Due to the unique terroir and microclimates, AVV produces quality Bordeaux, Rhône, and Burgundian grapes, plus other select varieties. However, they are best known for their Estate Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay.
Set aside time for a tour to experience the passion that makes AVV and the Wetzel Family the embodiment of what commitment, family, and vision look like. They truly represent the best of wine country, the best of Sonoma, and the Alexander Valley AVA.
Immersive Cave Tour & Tasting Experience Taste five unique AVV wines, while learning about the winemaking process, construction of the cave and life on a working farm. Saturday and Sunday: 1pm, one hour, $45pp
Experience Cabernet Sauvignon
Experience what makes Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon so unique with a horizontal tasting of four Cabernets. $45pp
Sunday-Friday: 10am, 11:30am, 1pm; Saturday: 10am
Wine and Cheese Pairing
Sample four local artisan cheeses paired with four favorite AVV wines. 48-hour notice, $45pp
Sunday-Friday: 10am, 11:30am, 1 pm; Saturday 10am
Vineyard Hikes Get an insider’s view exploring the vineyards while tasting the wines where they grow. After the hike, relax and enjoy the views with a wine-country boxed lunch. This is an easy walking tour, but there are hills and dirt trails. Daily 10:30am, $85pp; hikes are available weather permitting; call to confirm.
