2022 Flowers Chardonnay Sonoma Coast
Delicate aromas of white flower and coastal minerality frame a beautiful nose on this Chardonnay. Hints of kaffir lime leaf, fresh herbs, and elements of citrus amplify the bright savory character. The first sip offers a flourish of fresh focused acidity and lovely chalky textures. As the wine opens in the glass, faint notes of almond skin balance gentle citrus and pear, lingering on a mineral-rich finish.
The folks at UC Davis said it couldn’t be done. When Walt and Joan Flowers saw a newspaper ad for 321 acres of land on the Sonoma Coast, just 2 miles from the Pacific Ocean, they were immediately intrigued, but took pause. Only a few families – the Hirsches and the Bohans – were successfully growing grapes in such a cool part of California. Thankfully the Flowers ignored the ‘experts’ and planted Camp Meeting Ridge in 1991, so named for its history as an indian encampment and later, a site for religious retreats. Today Flowers is known for making some of the finest Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in America.
James Suckling
This is really tangy and vivid with sliced lemons and green apples with stone and white peaches. Some flowers and botanicals. Medium body. Firm and fine phenolics and a fresh finish. Drink or hold.