The Dutton Family (Russian River Valley)
The Benziger Family (Sonoma Valley)
This year’s Sonoma Wine Country Weekend Honorary Grower and Vintner Chair families were selected in recognition of their significant contributions to the development of Sonoma County as a wine region and destination. As Honorary Co-Chairs, the Dutton family of Dutton Ranch and the Benziger family of Benziger Family Winery will serve as spokespeople and representatives of the full range Sonoma Wine Country Weekend events, as well as hosts of special “Chairman’s Dinners” held on Saturday, September 3, 2011.
The Dutton family has been working the land in Sonoma County since the 1880s. Today, they sustainably farm 1,100 acres of winegrapes and organically farm 200 acres of apples in the Russian River Valley and Green Valley AVAs. By adhering to their philosophy that great wines come from great fruit, the Dutton family has built a reputation for quality that spans generations. Not only is the Dutton family known for their unshakable commitment to their land, but they are dedicated to giving back the local community. In addition to growing grapes of unmatched quality, they also contribute much of their time and resources to local schools and charities.
“As fourth- and fifth-generation Sonoma County farmers, we’re honored to have been named as Grower Chair of the 2011 Sonoma Wine Country Weekend,” said Steve Dutton of Dutton Ranch. “It’s exciting to be part of an event that not only supports local charities, but also celebrates everything that makes Sonoma County a world-class destination for wine as well as a beautiful place to live and work.”
The Benziger family’s philosophy is based on three pillars: family, great wine and healthy vineyards. For nearly thirty years, the Benziger family’s dedication to organic and 
sustainable farming principles has made them leaders in resource conservation, sustainable water use, carbon reduction and so much more, all while continuing to craft wines of unparalleled quality. Today, with over a dozen Benzigers active in their winery business, the Benziger family is committed to their sustainable principles – and will continue this commitment for generations to come.
“My family is delighted to serve as the Vintner Chair for Sonoma Wine Country Weekend,” said Kathy Benziger-Threlkeld, Benziger Family Winery. “Community involvement has always been a major priority for the Benziger family. We’re proud to be a part of an event that raises much-needed funds for our local charities. And we’re equally thrilled to have the opportunity to work alongside the Dutton family as Co-Chairs to share Sonoma County’s world class wines, stunning scenery, farm-fresh foods and friendly people during Sonoma Wine Country Weekend.”
