2023 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.
Wine Spectator
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.
Vinous
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.
James Suckling
The aromas of honeysuckle, subtle green apples and pears are delightful. Medium-bodied with a lively phenolic texture and flavors of limes, umami and sea salt. Crunchy, too. An energetic chardonnay.
Jeb Dunnuck
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.