Flowers Winery: A Guide to its Wines and Tasting Room

Flowers Winery is a renowned vineyard and winery located in the Sonoma Coast region of California. Founded in 1989, the winery has been a pioneer in growing Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines in the rugged coastal ridges of the extreme Sonoma Coast.

The winery's unique estate and highly acclaimed, limited production wines have made it a popular destination for wine enthusiasts. Flowers Vineyards & Winery is known for its distinctive Chardonnay and Pinot Noir wines that are grown on the soaring coastal ridges that border the Pacific Ocean. The vineyards rise up just two miles from the rugged coastline and are planted in soils that are well-drained, low fertility, and contain a high proportion of rocks and stones. These conditions create wines that are complex, nuanced, and expressive of their terroir.

Flowers Winery has gained a reputation for being a design-focused oasis that exercises intention in every element of their viticulture and winemaking. The winery's team, led by winemaker Chantal Forthun, emphasizes expressing the special terroir of their Sonoma Coast sites. This producer profile and wines to try on Decanter provides an in-depth look at Flowers Winery and its wines.

History and Founders

Walt and Joan Flowers

Flowers Vineyard & Winery was founded by Walt and Joan Flowers in 1989. Walt Flowers, a former Air Force Pilot, and Joan Flowers, a former nurse, shared a passion for wine and a dream of creating a world-class winery. They were inspired by the rugged and beautiful Sonoma Coast and saw the potential for growing exceptional Pinot Noir and Chardonnay along the fog-shrouded Pacific Ocean.

The couple purchased their first vineyard in 1989, a 321-acre parcel on the extreme Sonoma Coast. They planted their first vines in 1991 and produced their first vintage in 1993. Since then, Flowers Vineyard & Winery has become one of the most highly regarded wineries in Sonoma County.

Walt and Joan Flowers were dedicated to sustainable farming practices and protecting the environment. They used organic and biodynamic farming methods, which helped to preserve the natural beauty of the Sonoma Coast and produce wines that are true expressions of their terroir.

Today, Flowers Vineyard & Winery continues to be a family-owned and operated business. The Flowers family is committed to carrying on Walt and Joan's legacy and producing exceptional wines that capture the spirit of the Sonoma Coast.

Winery and Vineyards

Flowers Vineyards & Winery is a pioneering winery that has been producing exceptional wines for nearly 30 years. The winery is located on the rugged coastal ridges of the extreme Sonoma Coast, where it has been growing Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes since 1989. The winery's estate vineyards are spread across two distinct ridges: Camp Meeting Ridge and Sea View Ridge.

Estate Vineyard Overview

The Flowers Vineyards & Winery estate vineyards are situated on the extreme Sonoma Coast, where the climate is cool and the soils are well-draining. The vineyards are planted on steep hillsides that rise up from the Pacific Ocean, providing a unique microclimate that is ideal for growing Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes. The winery's commitment to sustainable farming practices ensures that the land is well-cared for and that the grapes are of the highest quality.

Camp Meeting Ridge

Camp Meeting Ridge is the highest point on the Flowers Vineyards & Winery estate, rising up to an elevation of 1,150 feet. The vineyard is planted on a steep hillside that faces the Pacific Ocean, providing a cool, maritime climate that is ideal for growing Pinot Noir grapes. The soil is made up of sandstone and shale, which provides excellent drainage for the vines. The vineyard is planted with several different clones of Pinot Noir, each of which contributes to the complex flavors of the wine.

Sea View Ridge

Sea View Ridge is located on the western edge of the Flowers Vineyards & Winery estate, rising up to an elevation of 1,400 feet. The vineyard is planted on a steep hillside that faces the Pacific Ocean, providing a cool, maritime climate that is ideal for growing Chardonnay grapes. The soil is made up of sandstone and shale, which provides excellent drainage for the vines. The vineyard is planted with several different clones of Chardonnay, each of which contributes to the complex flavors of the wine.

In summary, Flowers Vineyards & Winery is a pioneering winery on the extreme Sonoma Coast that produces exceptional Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines. The winery's estate vineyards, Camp Meeting Ridge and Sea View Ridge, are both planted on steep hillsides that face the Pacific Ocean and provide a unique microclimate that is ideal for growing grapes. The winery's commitment to sustainable farming practices ensures that the land is well-cared for and that the grapes are of the highest quality.

Wine Portfolio

Flowers Vineyards & Winery is known for producing high-quality wines that capture the spirit of the Sonoma Coast. Their wine portfolio includes a wide range of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay selections, limited production wines, and a Rosé of Pinot Noir.

Pinot Noir Selections

Flowers Vineyards & Winery offers a diverse range of Pinot Noir selections that showcase the unique terroir of the Sonoma Coast. Their Pinot Noirs are known for their complexity and nuance, with each bottle offering a unique flavor profile. The winery's flagship Pinot Noir, the Sea View Ridge, is a blend of several vineyards that captures the essence of the Sonoma Coast.

Chardonnay Selections

Flowers Vineyards & Winery's Chardonnay selections are equally impressive, with each bottle offering a distinct flavor profile that reflects the unique terroir of the Sonoma Coast. The winery's Chardonnays are known for their balance of fruit and acidity, with a rich, creamy texture that is characteristic of the varietal.

Limited Production Wines

Flowers Vineyards & Winery produces a range of limited production wines that showcase the best of the Sonoma Coast. These wines are made in small quantities and are only available to members of the winery's wine club. The limited production wines include both Pinot Noir and Chardonnay selections, as well as a few other varietals.

Rosé of Pinot Noir

Flowers Vineyards & Winery's Rosé of Pinot Noir is a refreshing and elegant wine that is perfect for warm weather. Made from 100% Pinot Noir grapes, this wine is light and crisp with notes of strawberry and watermelon. It is the perfect accompaniment to a summer picnic or a day at the beach.

Overall, Flowers Vineyards & Winery's wine portfolio is a testament to the winery's commitment to producing high-quality wines that showcase the unique terroir of the Sonoma Coast. Whether you're a fan of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, or Rosé, there is sure to be a wine in their portfolio that will suit your taste.

Winemaking Philosophy

Flowers Winery has a unique and unwavering winemaking philosophy that has been the driving force behind the success of their wines. The winery's commitment to organic and biodynamic farming practices is a constant in their winemaking philosophy. The team exercises intention in every element of their viticulture and winemaking with an emphasis on expressing the special terroir of their Sonoma Coast sites.

Terroir and Coastal Minerality

Flowers Winery's flagship estate vineyard, Camp Meeting Ridge, was first planted in 1991. The vineyard is located on the rugged coastal ridges of the extreme Sonoma Coast, where the cool, maritime climate and unique soils create the perfect conditions for growing Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The vineyard's elevation and proximity to the ocean result in a coastal minerality that is a hallmark of Flowers wines.

The winery's terroir-driven approach to winemaking is evident in every bottle. Flowers Winery's wines are a pure expression of where the grapes are grown and the unique characteristics of the terroir. The winery's commitment to sustainability and stewardship of the land ensures that the terroir is preserved for future generations.

Winemaker Chantal Forthun

Flowers Winery's winemaker, Chantal Forthun, is a rising star in the wine industry. She joined the winery in 2017 and has been instrumental in continuing the winery's tradition of producing exceptional Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Forthun's winemaking style is a perfect match for Flowers Winery's terroir-driven approach.

Forthun is known for her attention to detail and her ability to bring out the unique characteristics of the grapes. She works closely with the vineyard team to ensure that the grapes are harvested at the perfect time and that they are handled with care throughout the winemaking process. Forthun's passion for winemaking is evident in every bottle of Flowers wine.

In conclusion, Flowers Winery's commitment to sustainability, terroir-driven winemaking, and exceptional winemaking talent are all part of what makes their wines so special. The winery's unique approach to winemaking ensures that every bottle is a pure expression of the land and the grapes.

Visiting Flowers Winery

Flowers Winery is a must-visit destination for wine lovers who want to experience the best of Sonoma Coast. The winery is located in Healdsburg, a charming town in Sonoma County known for its picturesque downtown area, world-class restaurants, and excellent wineries. Here's what visitors can expect when they visit Flowers Winery.

Tasting Room Experience

The tasting room at Flowers Winery is a beautiful space that showcases the winery's wines and the stunning views of the surrounding vineyards. Visitors can choose from a variety of tasting experiences, including the Estate Vineyard Immersion, a focused tasting exploration of the winery's iconic estate vineyards, Camp Meeting Ridge and Sea View Ridge. The tasting is accompanied by seasonal pairing bites crafted by the House of Flowers culinary team.

Estate Celebrations

Flowers Winery is an ideal location for estate celebrations, including weddings, corporate events, and private parties. The winery offers a variety of event spaces, including the Vineyard Pavilion, a stunning outdoor space that can accommodate up to 200 guests. The winery's experienced event team can help plan every detail, from the menu to the decor, to ensure a memorable experience.

Members-Only Access

Flowers Winery offers a members-only experience that includes access to exclusive wines, private tastings, and special events. Members also receive discounts on wine purchases and priority access to limited-production wines. Becoming a member is easy and can be done online or in-person at the winery.

Flowers Winery is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, and reservations are recommended for all tasting experiences. The winery is located just a few minutes from downtown Healdsburg, making it a convenient destination for visitors who want to explore the town's many attractions. The winery's hospitality team is knowledgeable, friendly, and always ready to help visitors make the most of their visit.

Sustainability Practices

Flowers Winery takes sustainability seriously and has implemented various practices to reduce its impact on the environment. The winery has a long history of caring for the land and is committed to preserving it for future generations.

Vineyard Management

The vineyards at Flowers Winery are managed with sustainability in mind. The winery uses cover crops to control erosion and improve soil health. This practice helps to reduce the need for synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. The winery also practices integrated pest management, which involves using natural predators and other methods to control pests, rather than relying solely on chemicals.

Grape Harvesting

Flowers Winery is committed to sustainable grape harvesting practices. The winery handpicks its grapes, which allows for selective harvesting and reduces the amount of waste. The winery also uses lightweight picking bins, which reduces the amount of fuel needed to transport the grapes.

Land Conservation

Flowers Winery is committed to preserving the land on which it operates. The winery uses solar power to reduce its energy consumption and has implemented water conservation practices, such as drip irrigation, to reduce water usage. The winery also participates in conservation programs that protect local wildlife and promote biodiversity.

Certifications

Flowers Winery is certified by the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance (CSWA). This certification recognizes the winery's commitment to sustainable practices in the vineyard and winery. The winery is also certified by the Fish Friendly Farming program, which recognizes the winery's efforts to protect local streams and rivers.

In summary, Flowers Winery is committed to sustainability and has implemented various practices to reduce its impact on the environment. The winery's commitment to sustainable vineyard management, grape harvesting, and land conservation has earned it certifications from various organizations.

Community and Location

Flowers Winery is located on the rugged coastal ridges of the Sonoma Coast, a region known for producing some of the best Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines in the world. The winery is situated in Healdsburg, a charming town in Northern California that is known for its beautiful vineyards, historic downtown, and scenic countryside.

Healdsburg and Sonoma Coast

Healdsburg is located in the heart of Sonoma County, a region that is home to some of the most beautiful wineries in the world. The town is known for its vibrant community, friendly locals, and world-class dining options. Visitors to Healdsburg can explore the town's historic downtown, which is filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants.

The Sonoma Coast is known for its rugged beauty, coastal proximity, and cool climate. The region's unique terroir is ideal for growing Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes, which are used to produce some of the finest wines in the world. Visitors to Flowers Winery can take in the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding countryside while enjoying a glass of wine.

Westside Road and Downtown

Flowers Winery is located on Westside Road, a scenic route that winds through the rolling hills of Sonoma County. The road is known for its beautiful vineyards, historic farms, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors to Flowers Winery can take a leisurely drive down Westside Road and explore the region's many wineries and vineyards.

Downtown Healdsburg is just a short drive from Flowers Winery and is home to some of the best restaurants, shops, and art galleries in the region. Visitors to the town can explore the historic plaza, which is surrounded by beautiful Victorian-era buildings and is home to a weekly farmers' market.

Wine Reviews and Accolades

Flowers Winery has received numerous accolades and high ratings from respected wine critics and publications. The winery's commitment to crafting exceptional Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines on the rugged coastal ridges of the extreme Sonoma Coast has earned them a reputation as one of the top wineries in the region.

In 2019, Jeb Dunnuck rated Flowers Winery's Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir 92 points, praising its "pure, classic, textbook notes of ripe cherries, raspberries, spring flowers, and forest floor." The wine is a testament to the winery's dedication to producing wines that reflect the unique terroir of the Sonoma Coast.

Natalie MacLean, a renowned wine critic, gave Flowers Winery's 2021 Chardonnay a score of 93/100. She described the wine as a "dry, medium-bodied and juicy Chard with bright lemon, green apple, honeyed pear, ripe stone fruit, vanilla and toasty oak spice flavours with a long, briny mineral finish." MacLean recommends pairing the wine with roast chicken and all the trimmings.

The winery's commitment to quality is reflected in the numerous accolades they have received over the years. Flowers Winery has been featured in Decanter's "Producer profile and wines to try" and has received high ratings from Wine Enthusiast, Wine Spectator, and Robert Parker's Wine Advocate.

Overall, Flowers Winery is a must-visit for wine enthusiasts looking to taste exceptional Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines crafted with care and precision.

House of Flowers

Flowers Vineyards & Winery is not just a winery, but also a destination where visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of the estate and enjoy a variety of tasting experiences. One of the highlights of the estate is the House of Flowers, a stunning tasting room that opened in 2019.

Gardens and Glass

The House of Flowers is an architectural marvel that blends seamlessly into the surrounding landscape. The building features floor-to-ceiling glass walls that offer panoramic views of the estate's lush gardens and vineyards. The gardens are meticulously maintained and feature a variety of native plants and flowers that add to the natural beauty of the estate.

Tasting Experiences

The House of Flowers offers a range of tasting experiences that showcase the estate's highly acclaimed, limited production wines. Visitors can choose from a variety of tasting options, including a focused exploration of the estate's iconic vineyards, Camp Meeting Ridge and Sea View Ridge. This in-depth tasting of estate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from the extreme coastal sites is accompanied by seasonal pairing bites crafted by the House of Flowers culinary team.

The wines at Flowers Vineyards & Winery are known for their fresh coastal minerality, which is a result of the unique terroir of the estate. The House of Flowers offers visitors the opportunity to experience these wines in a beautiful setting that is as unique as the wines themselves.

In conclusion, the House of Flowers is a must-visit destination for anyone who appreciates great wine and beautiful architecture. Whether you're a wine enthusiast or simply looking for a relaxing day trip, the House of Flowers is sure to impress.