SONOMA VALLEY ROOTS:
I first came to the area because of all the great rhone varietal vineyards to be found especially Syrah and Grenache. I am now making Chardonnay, Cabernet, and Merlot from Sonoma Valley as well. Almost every varietal does well in some spot here.
WHAT SETS SONOMA VALLEY APART:
Cooler temperatures than other California regions, I believe the best wines are made in the coolest environment that can ripen a particular varietal.
FAVORITE PLACE ONLY THE LOCALS KNOW:
I love all the little parks and vineyards on the north side of Sonoma Mountain. You can find views looking east to the town of Sonoma and west down Bennett Valley.
IF YOU DIDN’T MAKE WINE WHAT WOULD YOU BE:
I’d likely be farming other things. I’ve always thought it would be fun to grow heirloom wheat varietals. Large tractor with air conditioning mandatory!
GUILTY PLEASURE:
Canned tuna, I don’t really feel guilty about it so much as embarrassed.
INSPIRED BY:
Winemaking wise its Jacky Truchot and Henri Jayer for their pure wines, creative farming and uncompromising commitment to quality while fighting the status quo.
FAVORITE WINE (BESIDES YOURS):
There’s a lot. From Sonoma Valley the Kistler Durell Vineyard Chardonnay is always great.
WHAT WOULD YOU ORDER FOR YOUR LAST MEAL:
My family there.
WHAT SHOULD WE KNOW ABOUT FLANAGAN WINES:
We are committed to balanced, healthy vineyards, and to producing wines that reflect the integrity and distinctiveness of our site. At the end of the day, we are making wines we love to drink from a place we love to be.
