#4 on Hi-Time's Top White Wines from North America
Flowers Winery is one of the first pioneers on the Sonoma Coast and was among the first to cultivate grapes on the steep slopes overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The cool coastal climate and high elevation of these exceptional vineyards yield Pinot Noir and Chardonnay of remarkable complexity and elegance. From the initial plantings more than 30 years ago, Flowers Vineyards & Winery has been inspired and defined by the Sonoma Coast. Sometimes referred to as the "far" Sonoma Coast, their rugged, windswept vineyards represent extreme viticulture in the pursuit of crafting wines representative of time and place. Their Camp Meeting Ridge is Flowers' flagship estate vineyard and situated a mere two miles from the ocean at nearly 1,500 feet. Its fruit combines elements of chilly coastal weather and mountain character. Perched on a knoll above the fog line, its carefully contoured vine rows bask in sunshine throughout the growing season while the ambient temperatures remain cool. An ideal combination for complex grapes.
This Chardonnay comes primarily from Flowers' organically-farmed Camp Meeting Ridge Vineyard, as well as several family-owned vineyards that share their farming philosophy. Fermented entirely with native yeasts and aged in 100% French oak barrels, this wine is textbook Sonoma Coast Chardonnay. And... it's so good! In fact, when our California staff tried this wine, they felt it was the best Flowers Sonoma Coast Chardonnay they've tasted in almost a decade! We're not the only ones who think this wine is exceptional, as respected critic Audrey Frick of Jeb Dunnuck.com has rated this at 96 points!
JEB DUNNUCK 96 POINTS - "A bright straw hue, the 2023 Chardonnay Sonoma Coast is elegant and refreshing with notes of preserved salted lime, green apples, wet stones, and delicate spice. The palate is full though compact and light on its feet, with fantastic clarity, focus, and an electric energy that propels the wine with a refreshing and balanced feel. An exceptional vintage for this wine, it has the ability to hold up over the long haul. Drink 2025-2037."
WINE SPECTATOR 93 POINTS - "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."
Flowers Winery is one of the first pioneers on the Sonoma Coast and was among the first to cultivate grapes on the steep slopes overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The cool coastal climate and high elevation of these exceptional vineyards yield Pinot Noir and Chardonnay of remarkable complexity and elegance. From the initial plantings more than 30 years ago, Flowers Vineyards & Winery has been inspired and defined by the Sonoma Coast. Sometimes referred to as the "far" Sonoma Coast, their rugged, windswept vineyards represent extreme viticulture in the pursuit of crafting wines representative of time and place. Their Camp Meeting Ridge is Flowers' flagship estate vineyard and situated a mere two miles from the ocean at nearly 1,500 feet. Its fruit combines elements of chilly coastal weather and mountain character. Perched on a knoll above the fog line, its carefully contoured vine rows bask in sunshine throughout the growing season while the ambient temperatures remain cool. An ideal combination for complex grapes.
This Chardonnay comes primarily from Flowers' organically-farmed Camp Meeting Ridge Vineyard, as well as several family-owned vineyards that share their farming philosophy. Fermented entirely with native yeasts and aged in 100% French oak barrels, this wine is textbook Sonoma Coast Chardonnay. And... it's so good! In fact, when our California staff tried this wine, they felt it was the best Flowers Sonoma Coast Chardonnay they've tasted in almost a decade! We're not the only ones who think this wine is exceptional, as respected critic Audrey Frick of Jeb Dunnuck.com has rated this at 96 points!
JEB DUNNUCK 96 POINTS - "A bright straw hue, the 2023 Chardonnay Sonoma Coast is elegant and refreshing with notes of preserved salted lime, green apples, wet stones, and delicate spice. The palate is full though compact and light on its feet, with fantastic clarity, focus, and an electric energy that propels the wine with a refreshing and balanced feel. An exceptional vintage for this wine, it has the ability to hold up over the long haul. Drink 2025-2037."
WINE SPECTATOR 93 POINTS - "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."
