Situated on the outskirts of the city of Healdsburg in California's Sonoma County, the Alderbrook estate is at the southernmost tip of the Dry Creek Valley, within a stone's throw of the Russian River. On a road map this might not seem significant, but in the world of fine wine, this location is considered one of the best in the region. Although technically located in the Dry Creek Valley appellation, the official border of the Russian River Valley appellation begins close to Alderbrook's 65-acre estate. This gives the winery a unique position at the confluence of these two valleys.
The Alderbrook estate vineyard receives the pronounced afternoon heat that is typical of the Dry Creek Valley. But the vines are also cooled nicely by the night air that creeps up the Russian River Valley from the waters of the Pacific Ocean — producing evening and early morning fog. Alderbrook’s vineyard enjoys the luxury of extended “hang time.” This produces more mature fruit, and results in rich, full-bodied flavor characteristics — qualities that are ultimately apparent in the wines.
In addition to the estate fruit, Alderbrook has agreements with many of the top growers in both appellations, purchasing grapes from some of the most recognized vineyards in the Russian River and Dry Creek Valleys.
In 2000, Alderbrook's owners approached Terlato Wines International to help define and revitalize the winemaking program. As part of a long-range plan to produce world-class wines, Terlato positioned the winery to produce single vineyard and estate wines, with a focus on Zinfandel and Pinot Noir. These improvements have also been reflected aesthetically with the introduction of new packaging.
The partnership proved fruitful and the Terlato family, owners of Terlato Wines International, was asked to invest in the winery. Visualizing Alderbrook's potential, they purchased a majority share in 2001. Since then, they have backed their personal vision with a multi-million dollar financial commitment. Capital investments in both vineyard sources and the physical plant provide the winemaking team the best grapes and equipment available.
Situated on the outskirts of the city of Healdsburg in California's Sonoma County, the Alderbrook estate is at the southernmost tip of the Dry Creek Valley, within a stone's throw of the Russian River. On a road map this might not seem significant, but in the world of fine wine, this location is considered one of the best in the region. Although technically located in the Dry Creek Valley appellation, the official border of the Russian River Valley appellation begins close to Alderbrook's 65-acre estate. This gives the winery a unique position at the confluence of these two valleys.
In 2000, Alderbrook's owners approached Terlato Wines International to help define and revitalize the winemaking program. As part of a long-range plan to produce world-class wines, Terlato positioned the winery to produce single vineyard and estate wines, with a focus on Zinfandel and Pinot Noir. These improvements have also been reflected aesthetically with the introduction of new packaging.
