April 16, 2026 (Alexander Valley, Healdsburg, CA) — The Alexander Valley Winegrowers (AVW) have reimagined their signature event, TASTE Alexander Valley, evolving it from a traditional two-day tasting into a month-long celebration designed for today’s wine consumer.
For more than 12 years, TASTE Alexander Valley drew wine lovers to the region for a weekend of tastings. In 2026, the event has been transformed into a free, self-guided tasting experience offered throughout the entire month of April, inviting guests to explore the valley at their own pace.
The new format removes one of the most common barriers to entry—tasting fees—while encouraging discovery across both iconic and lesser-known wineries. Participating wineries are offering complimentary tasting flights, with some also extending 10–15% savings on wine purchases.
“Wine consumers are changing,” said Jessie Vallery, Executive Director of Alexander Valley Winegrowers. “They’re looking for flexibility, authenticity, and meaningful experiences. By removing barriers and expanding this into a month-long event, we’re creating more opportunities for connection—between guests, wineries, and the land.”
Guests can view participating wineries, event details, and reservation requirements at:
https://alexandervalley.org/taste-alexander-valley/
To enhance the experience, AVW partnered with HipMaps to create a custom interactive map. Guests can download the app and enter the access code TASTE to plan their visit. Showing the map upon arrival signals participation and unlocks the complimentary tasting experience.
Due to strong turnout, guests are encouraged to plan ahead. Most wineries accommodate small groups of two to four guests, with some allowing up to six. Reservations are recommended where noted.
The first two weeks have exceeded expectations, with both locals and visitors embracing the new format. The momentum continues with two featured experiences on Saturday, April 18:
A Vintner’s Table Dinner at The Matheson, hosted by four Alexander Valley wineries, with limited seating remaining, and a nearly sold-out Next Gen Wine 101 class at Silver Oak Cellars, designed to introduce a new generation of wine drinkers in an approachable, no-snobbery setting.
This shift reflects a broader evolution within the region—prioritizing accessibility, education, and authentic hospitality while staying rooted in its agricultural heritage.
Participating wineries include:
ACTA Wine, Alexander Valley Vineyards, Bedarra Vineyards, J. Rickards Winery, Lampson Family Wines, La Cienega Vineyard, Mercury Wine, Ramazzotti Wines, Robert Young Estate Winery, Silver Oak Cellars, Stuhlmuller Vineyards & Winery, Trione Vineyards & Winery, Jordan Vineyard & Winery, Francis Ford Coppola Winery, William Gregory (At Local’s)
Visitors can extend their stay with 20% off room rates at Appellation Healdsburg, Geyserville Inn, and Hotel Healdsburg.
TASTE Alexander Valley is presented in partnership with Stay Healdsburg and the Healdsburg Chamber, Peloton Photo, Treetop Digital Creative, HipMaps, and ZigStyle.
About Alexander Valley Winegrowers
Alexander Valley Winegrowers is a community-driven organization dedicated to promoting and protecting the wines, growers, and agricultural heritage of Alexander Valley through collaborative marketing, events, and advocacy.
