Dan Goldfield found his way to California pursuing chemistry research at UC Berkley and later an MS degree in enology from UC Davis in 1986. An avid admirer of Burgundian-styled wines, Dan brought awareness of his winemaking talents crafting wines at La Crema and Hartford Court Wineries. Winemaker Dan Goldfield formed a partnership with fifth generation grower Steve Dutton in 1998. Dutton Goldfield manages 1,300 acres of land with 60 non-contiguous parcels in Russian River Valley.

Fox Den Vineyard is situated atop the Sierra Ridge, along the western border of Green Valley above the town of Occidental. These vines are planted in sandy loam Goldridge soils. The wine is aged for 18 months in 55% new French Oak barrels. The dark garnet edges of this wine invite you inside with aromas of of dried strawberries, lavender and crushed rose petals. Cherry puree, creme de cassis, incense, savory spices and refined earthy notes create a sense of elegance and power. This wine has a true sense of place with an underlying complexity and acidity that promise years of evolution.

By W Peter Hoyne