Alternate Current
Alternate Current is a négociant-style producer created by the team behind Project Optimist, with a mission to uncover and elevate distinctive vineyard parcels that might otherwise go unnoticed. These are small-yield sites with compelling backstories—blocks that often get blended with others despite their singular potential.
Born from a belief in doing things differently, Alternate Current offers a fresh perspective and alternate path: one rooted in authenticity, deep grower relationships, and a commitment to low-intervention winemaking. The team set out to create wines that celebrate place over volume, allowing the character of each site to speak clearly and honestly.
By keeping production intentionally small, they shine a light on the nuance and individuality of each vineyard, crafting wines that are expressive—bottled stories of land, labor, and vision.
The First Release
The first two releases from Alternate Current are the result of a close collaboration between winemaker Rob Fischer and the Project Optimist team. A seasoned vintner with a wide-ranging background, Rob brings decades of experience from acclaimed wineries such as Domaine Carneros, Etude, Beaulieu Vineyards, and Banshee. His deep roots in Napa and Sonoma have fostered lasting relationships with growers across the region—connections that informed the bottles he crafted for this project.
Rob’s true passion lies in cool-climate wines, especially those from the Sonoma Coast, where he is drawn to the natural tension, vibrant acidity, and purity of expression the fruit offers. His personal winemaking style leans toward restraint: gentle handling in the vineyard, minimal intervention in the cellar, and an unwavering focus on letting the vineyard speak for itself.
Rather than chasing trends, Rob is guided by a commitment to authenticity, which made him excited to be part of this project—creating wines that reflect the distinct character of their origin with honesty and intention.
