FLORA SPRINGS

Absolutely Delicious Wines

Flora Springs is a family endeavor that epitomizes hard work, dedication and teamwork. The vitality of the family is obvious as they set about the task of growing great quality grapes and making absolutely delicious wine. Even the name Flora Springs has significance – Flora is our mother and the springs refer to the water source on the property that has flowed uninterrupted regardless of periods of drought. 
It all began over 28 years ago, when Jerry and Flora Komes bought the first vineyard – a vineyard with lots of history, great soils and two ghost wineries. Their retirement project became a lifetime passion for son John Komes and daughter Julie Garvey and their families. John quickly talked the family (including another brother Mike Komes) into making wine.  Julie worked side by side with John for the first two years as they made the wines. Julie’s husband Pat Garvey took over the vineyard side of things.
In 1980, Ken Deis was hired as winemaker and he has been part of the family ever since. Ken makes use of every tool at his disposal. First of all, he trusts his senses: the feel of the berry in his fingers, the taste of the fruit and then the wine, the smells during fermentation. A winemaker needs to understand the source of his fruit and Ken has worked closely with vineyard manager Pat Garvey for more than 28 years so that they can anticipate the challenges that each vintage brings. Winemakers also look for the edge – different yeast, a better pump over technique, a reliable method to measure extractable color and character available in the grape. Ken has adopted the same curiosity that the entire Komes-Garvey family has and it has paid off royally in the quality of his wines.  
There are two Flora Springs tasting rooms to visit, one that’s open to the public daily and easy to find at 677 South St. Helena Highway (next to Dean and Deluca) and the other, at the working winery in a pristine setting. To visit Flora Springs Winery, at 1978 West Zinfandel Lane, call (707) 967-6723 for an appointment. Tasting and tour is $20 with tours conducted by appointment. Taste in the elegant winery then explore 1000 linear feet of caves.