Born in 1967, Steve Dutton is the 5th generation of the Dutton family to live in the area of Russian River Valley. He began working with his father Warren in the vineyards at the age of five years old. He always realized that he would farm and manage these vineyards. Today, he is responsible for managing the original vineyard of Chardonnay planted by his father along with 60 additional parcels in the Russian River Valley. Steve manages the vineyards of Dutton Goldfield along with his family’s Dutton estate property.

Walker Hill Vineyard was planted in the early 1980’s and is sourced from old vine Wente Clones planted in Goldridge soils. This Chardonnay can only be described as heavenly. The aromas are finely tuned with honeyed Meyer Lemon rinds that underscore the depth and personality within. The middle is uber complex with freshly baked apple cobbler and dark baking spices that add to its soft and open knit personality. It has a natural savory richness and texture that keep your attention for minutes. Each sip leads you along a memorable journey that last for minutes. A terrific effort for the winemaking team at Dutton Goldfield.

By W Peter Hoyne