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, Steve is responsible for managing the original vineyard of Chardonnay planted by his father along with 60 additional parcels in the Russian River Valley. Steve formed a partnership with Dan Goldfield in 1989 and 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 Clone Chardonnay planted in Goldridge soils. This Chardonnay has a luminous green-yellow glow with an enticing floral bouquet of lemon oil, orange blossoms and honeysuckle. The first sip greets your palate with crisp Granny Smith apples, crushed pineapples, poached yellow pears and wet stones. The mid-palate is lavishly rich and textured adding a luxurious feel with creamy lemon curd and marzipan. The well balanced acidity gives lift to the satiny finish. This expertly crafted wine is built on purity and precision.

By W Peter Hoyne