Co-Founder/Winemaker Dan Goldfield Stepping Back, Melissa Stackhouse to Lead Winemaking

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Dutton-Goldfield Winery Announces that Co-Founder and Winemaker Dan Goldfield is stepping back from day-to-day responsibilities; Melissa Stackhouse to Lead Winemaking

Sebastopol, CA (March 18, 2025) – After more than 26 years of visionary winemaking and dedication to Dutton-Goldfield Winery, co-founder and winemaker Dan Goldfield has announced he is stepping back from daily operations at Dutton-Goldfield Winery. Goldfield, whose passion and expertise have shaped the winery’s reputation for crafting elite and acclaimed Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, will maintain the title of “Winemaker Emeritus” as he departs from operations. Melissa Stackhouse, who joined Dutton-Goldfield in 2022, will assume full leadership of winemaking and custom crush services, continuing the winery’s legacy of excellence.

Since co-founding Dutton-Goldfield Winery in 1998 with renowned 5th generation farmer Steve Dutton, Goldfield has been instrumental in elevating the wines of the Russian River Valley, West Sonoma County, and extreme coastal sites. Goldfield’s influence extends beyond the winery, having mentored countless winemakers and helped define the modern landscape of Sonoma County winemaking.

“It has been an incredible journey to explore both winemaking and land in this spectacular, intricate part of the world. I started working with Steve, and the Dutton family, in 1991,” said Goldfield. “I am grateful for the hard work, tenacity and caring of the independent folks who define the north coast of California. Dutton-Goldfield’s team, our beloved community partners and respected colleagues, and especially our loyal members and customers are all so dear in my life.”

Goldfield continued, “There is no one in this business for whom I have greater affection, respect and trust than Melissa Stackhouse. It is an honor to have her lead us forward, and to support her in any way she asks into the future.”

Melissa Stackhouse, a highly respected veteran in Sonoma County winemaking, has an impressive background that includes leadership roles at La Crema, J Vineyards & Winery, and Constellation Brands. Stackhouse has a profound appreciation for cool-climate viticulture and a meticulous approach to crafting wines of purity and precision. In addition to leading Dutton-Goldfield’s winemaking, she will oversee the winery’s expanding custom crush program, ensuring the same commitment to quality and innovation that has defined the brand for over two decades.

“After 26 years of working with Dan and crafting outstanding wines from Dutton Ranch, I’m thrilled to see him take this next step as Winemaker Emeritus,” said Steve Dutton, co-founder/owner of Dutton-Goldfield Winery and president/co-owner of Dutton Ranch. “Having worked with Melissa in her various roles over the past 20 years—including the last three at Dutton-Goldfield—I have complete confidence in her winemaking talent. I look forward to what we can achieve together.”

As Dutton-Goldfield enters this new chapter, the winery remains steadfast in its mission: to produce exceptional wines that celebrate the unique terroirs of the Russian River Valley and the Sonoma Coast.

For more information about Dutton-Goldfield Winery, visit www.duttongoldfield.com.

Questions? Review our FAQs here: https://duttongoldfield.com/dan-goldfield-faq

 Media Contact:
Ed Thralls
General Manager

Dutton-Goldfield Winery

ed@duttongoldfield.com
707-823-3887