Wines Sonoma Coast Flowers - Pinot Noir

Viniou Reviews

Coming from the renowned Sonoma Coast AVA in California, the Flowers Pinot Noir is a striking example of New World elegance. Although this cuvée is non-vintage, it showcases the signature characteristics of Pinot Noir: bright ruby color, delicate aromas of ripe red cherries, cranberry, and wild strawberries, with gentle floral notes of violet and a subtle hint of forest floor. The palate is supple and fresh, marked by fine-grained tannins and a lively acidity, with layers of red fruit, subtle spice, and a savory, mineral-driven finish. The Flowers estate is known for hands-off winemaking: hand-harvested grapes, gentle pressing, and aging in a judicious mix of new and used French oak barrels, resulting in a wine of purity and finesse.

The Sonoma Coast AVA is one of California’s most celebrated regions for Pinot Noir, defined by its cool maritime climate, frequent foggy mornings, and dramatic diurnal temperature shifts. The proximity to the Pacific Ocean brings a freshness and restraint to the wines, with long, slow grape maturation allowing nuanced flavor development and retention of excellent acidity. Soils in this region range from well-drained sandy loam to gravel and clay, each contributing complexity and structure. The region itself has a rich history, with a tradition of cultivating Burgundy varieties, especially Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, benefitting from the unique conditions found here.

This refined Pinot Noir will pair beautifully with roasted duck breast with cherry glaze, grilled salmon, or a classic wild mushroom risotto. It also harmonizes with regional California cuisine like goat cheese tart with herbs or almond-crusted pork tenderloin. For a more local touch, consider enjoying it alongside Sonoma cheeses and fresh, seasonal vegetables.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine slightly cool, ideally at 14-16°C. Decanting is not required but could help open its aromatic complexity if the wine is youthful. Enjoy within the next three to five years to capture its vibrant fruit and fresh acidity.