Flowers Vineyard is a true Sonoma Coast pioneer. Strong advocates of organic and sustainable farming practices, their estate vineyards perch just inland from the Pacific. This rugged (some might say “extreme”) AVA benefits from cool maritime breezes, clear days, plenty of sun exposure for ripening, and chilly evening fog that produces an unmistakeable fresh acidity in the finished wines.

Grapes were hand-harvested into small bins through the early morning hours when the fruit was still cool, then sorted by hand. Bunches were gently whole cluster-pressed; juice was settled, then moved to French oak barrels (new and one to two years old) for primary and malolactic fermentation in temperature and humidity-controlled aging rooms. Each barrel was stirred by hand twice a month. (This traditional method, batonnage, whisks up the yeast and fine sediment known as lees that naturally settles in the bottom of the barrels.) This detail encourages soft texture and complex mouth feel in the finished wine. After blending in early summer, the wine aged in bottle prior to release.

Bright citrus notes, white flower, nuances of white peach and hints of flint. The palate is energetic with acidity and tension balanced with flavours or orchard fruit, finishing long and bright.

“This distinctive white features a lively, mouthwatering and energetic mix of pomelo, yuzu and lemon sherbet flavors, with hints of sweetgrass, apple blossoms and lime zest. There’s also an appealing grip on the finish, reminiscent of the skin of roasted, salted almonds, while a whiff of wild fennel lingers. Drink now through 2033.”
93 points, MaryAnn Worobiec, Wine Spectator, October 2024

“The bass line of this aromatic show is provided by intense lemon tones of verbena, freshly chopped ginger, and a concentrated presence of salty ocean air. Its brilliant, briny character is accented by intense Meyer lemon pulp, smoky chipped flint, and a dash of dried chamomile. It is vibrant, electric, and beguiling.”
93 points, Clive Pursehouse, Decanter, October 2024

“The 2023 Chardonnay (Sonoma Coast) from Flowers is gorgeous. Bright, aromatic, and vibrant, the 2023 captures all the personality of this late-ripening vintage. Bright saline notes drive through a core of lemon peel, white pepper, slate, chalk and mint. This steely, beautifully persistent Chardonnay is a winner.”
92 points, Antoni Galloni, Vinous Media, January 2025