Anderson Valley HIstory of White Wine Festival

History of Anderson Valley White Wine Festival, Begins with Alsace

Anderson Valley’s rich winemaking heritage is rooted in Alsatian white wine grapes, first introduced to the region in 1963 when Dr. Edmeads planted Gewürztraminer. Husch Vineyards followed in 1972 with Riesling on Greenwood Ridge, while Navarro Vineyards established plantings in 1975. Brad Wiley added Riesling in 1976, and Mary Elke expanded the valley’s diversity by planting the 50-acre Donnelly Creek Vineyard with Pinot Gris after acquiring the land in 1979.

Pioneering wineries like Handley Cellars and Lazy Creek Vineyards also championed Alsatian varieties, helping to shape the region’s identity. In 2006, Anderson Valley winegrowers launched the first festival dedicated to celebrating Alsatian white wines, bringing together producers from Anderson Valley, Alsace, and other regions worldwide.