Dan Goldfield found his way to California pursuing chemistry research at UC Berkley and later earned an MS degree in enology from UC Davis. An avid admirer of Burgundian-styled wines, Dan brought awareness of his winemaking talents crafting wines at La Crema and Hartford Court.

Steve Dutton is a 5th generation farmer who grew up in the Russian River Valley. Warren Dutton, Steve’s father, started growing grapes in the western reaches of Russian River Valley in the 1960’s. Steve began working with his father in the vineyards at age five and then joined the family’s Dutton Ranch in 1987. In 1998 he formed a partnership with Dan Goldfield and together they founded Dutton-Goldfield Winery. Dutton Goldfield Winery is celebrating their 25th anniversary.

This dark garnet wine boasts aromas of dried spring flowers and lavender. This is the classic definition of Russian River Valley Zinfandel as it is refined and elegant. It overflows with mulberries and boysenberry underpinnings with a hint of minerality and cedar. It speaks to you in a soft yet complex voice. The backbone is nicely textured with finely grained tannins, savory spices and a fresh acidity that linger into a bright and lengthy finish.

By W Peter Hoyne