Dutcher Crossing Winery began not just with a passion for wine, but with a partnership grounded in shared vision. When proprietor Debra Mathy stepped into the role of proprietor of the winery, she found in founding winemaker Kerry Damskey the perfect creative partner. Kerry brought decades of winemaking experience, an instinct for terroir, and a deep respect for the craft. Debra brought drive, a love of wine, and a commitment to creating something lasting. Together, they laid the foundation for Dutcher Crossing: a winery rooted in authenticity, relationships, and site-expressive wines.
Kerry believed that great wine begins in the vineyard, and he worked closely with Debra to source exceptional fruit from top growers across Sonoma County and beyond. His focus on single-vineyard bottlings helped define the Dutcher Crossing style—structured, balanced, and unmistakably tied to place.
Today, winemaker Nick Briggs carries that vision forward—but he’s also pushing it into new territory. With nearly 20 years of experience across California’s top wine regions, including 13 years at Dutcher Crossing, Nick has brought fresh energy and a thoughtful eye for innovation. He’s not just continuing the legacy—he’s evolving it.
Nick remains deeply committed to the winery’s core principles: small-lot production, long-standing grower partnerships, and wines that reflect their origins. But under his leadership, the portfolio is continuously expanding. He’s introducing new varietals, exploring new vineyard sources, and crafting wines that stretch the Dutcher Crossing identity in bold, exciting ways—while staying true to its roots.
You can taste the throughline—from Kerry’s early vintages to Nick’s current releases. But you can also taste the growth: new layers of finesse, fresh expressions, and a broader, more adventurous portfolio.
At Dutcher Crossing, continuity doesn’t mean standing still. It means building on a strong foundation—refining, evolving, and staying curious. Kerry and Debra set the course. Nick is writing the next chapter.