Bentley Motors Website: Extraordinary Journeys: Dustin Valette

CHEF

Sustainability is a top priority for the Chef. The Northern California climate may deliver a vibrant selection of produce, but it must be cared for by this generation and the next. Dustin is committed to his symbiotic relationship with local growers, and his restaurants are a shining example of a balance between land and food.

His international experiences helped shape his culinary style, but when he and his brother started Valette, Dustin finally had his own canvas. The Russian River Valley is a rich growing environment for the local farmers and Dustin’s menus all start with the highest quality ingredients. Dustin believes in the subtle and simple ways of drawing the best flavors from his creations.

ENTREPRENEUR

Dustin’s ambition and creativity drove him to start his own wine label and launch another restaurant in the Healdsburg square. The Matheson is a dream come true for Dustin, but it was an enormous undertaking. First, he and his partner Silicon Valley legend Craig Ramsey had to acquire the three-story landmark building where a complete overall and renovation was needed. The opportunity to restore and revive the old town bakery was too romantic and fulfilled a dream – they simply could not pass it up.

Today, The Matheson is a cornerstone of the Healdsburg community. From the self-service wine tasting wall, to the second-floor dining veranda, and the third-floor bar and outdoor area – The Matheson delivers on all promises. When Dustin isn’t leading his team in the kitchen, he’s making sure all the customers are well taken care of and comfortable.

VINTNER

He believes in the natural pairing of wine and food and began experimenting with his own family wines in his garage. His curiosity that began as a hobby soon turned into a determination to develop his own label. With his extensive network of farmers and vintners in the area, Dustin decided to partner with some of the most creative minds to develop a full line of Valette Wines.

Dustin revels in the collaborative process of wine development. The relationship between the farmer, the winemaker, and the chef has been the driving force behind his namesake label. Dustin and his wine-making partners are also committed to sustainability and being responsible stewards of the land.

FLYING SPUR

The Flying Spur Hybrid Odyssean Edition shown is finished in a Ghost White paintwork, with Bright Chrome exterior details, complemented by 21” ten-spoke wheels with a Pale Brodgar detail. The interior is a tri-tone cabin in Brunel and Linen leather with an Autumn accent. Contrast stitching and Embroidered Emblems to the seats and cabins. The facias feature Open-pore Koa and the center console in Painted Piano Linen.

The Odyssean Edition is the first mainstream production Bentley to implement design influences from the EXP 100GT concept car. The use of sustainable luxury cabin materials is another example of Bentley’s commitment to the environment. The 2.9-Litre V6 petrol engine and advanced electric motor push combined power of 536 bhp (544PS) and 750 Nm (553 lb. ft) of torque.