At Dutcher Crossing Winery, we’re proud to call Dry Creek Valley home. This small-but-mighty AVA is more than just where we make our wines—it’s the foundation of who we are.
Dry Creek stands out among California’s wine regions for good reason. Wines from this valley consistently deliver a true sense of place—with balanced ripeness, vibrant acidity, and layered complexity. Here, it’s not just about winemaking techniques, it’s about letting the vineyard speak.
What makes Dry Creek so special? It starts with the climate. Warm, sun-soaked days let grapes ripen beautifully, while cool nights—thanks to coastal fog funneled through the Russian River Gap—preserve acidity and structure. That natural balance shows up in every bottle.
Though the valley is only 16 miles long and 2 miles wide, it packs in a wide range of soils—gravelly loam, clay, volcanic ash—perfect for growing a spectrum of varietals. From Zinfandel and Cabernet Sauvignon to Sauvignon Blanc and Rhône varietals, the diversity is striking, and so are the wines.
Dry Creek is a historic hub for Zinfandel, with vines dating back to the early 1900s. These old vines produce deeply concentrated, bold wines with character that simply can’t be faked. It’s a legacy we’re proud to carry forward in our own Zinfandel bottlings at Dutcher Crossing.
Dry Creek may be rooted in history, but it’s not stuck in the past. Today’s winemakers are pushing boundaries—embracing sustainable farming, concrete fermentation, minimal intervention, and field blends that honor both land and legacy. At Dutcher Crossing, we strive to walk that same line—respecting tradition while exploring new paths.
One of the things we love most about Dry Creek Valley? It’s personal. With around 9,000 vineyard acres and fewer than 100 wineries, the region is tight-knit, family-focused, and committed to quality over quantity. It’s a place where craftsmanship matters —and where we’re proud to grow, harvest, and raise a glass.
From soil to cellar, our roots run deep here. And we’re grateful to be part of a region that reflects the same values we hold dear: integrity, community, and great wine.