Overview: Jean-Charles Boisset and Gina Gallo-Boisset have reopened the tasting room at Flora Springs in St. Helena, Napa Valley. The venue features a “palazzo of glass” design inspired by Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí and is decorated with five million colored mosaic tiles. Guests can sip wine by the glass or bottle, or order wine-infused cocktails within the gardens.
The Full Story
The structure is defined by its undulating roof and a shimmery, mermaid tail-inspired facade meant to mirror the vineyards, Mayacamas Mountains, and sky behind it. Boisset described the project as a modern tribute to Gaudí, utilizing glass mosaic instead of broken mosaic to create a dégradé of green. The original zebra-striped, sandstone-colored building was built in 2004 and has been restored by architect Joel Moriglioto to resemble a cathedral reminiscent of Gaudí’s Casa Milà in Barcelona.
Inside, the tasting room features three whimsical grottos with mosaics that take guests on Flora’s journey during the growing season. The Awakening Cave displays constellations including Gemini, while the Bloom Cave encapsulates spring and the Harvest Cave represents the end of the season. A rooftop lounge is scheduled to open in October, alongside a “VVIP room” featuring a sky mosaic across sliding doors.
Production & Profile
The winery continues to produce flagship blends Trilogy and Soliloquy alongside six new single-vineyard Cabernets named Chloris, Flora, and Favonius. A white wine-only flight called “Celestial Whites” includes Sauvignon Blanc with small amounts of Chardonnay, Malvasia Bianca, and Vermentino. The “Sovereign Goddess” flight showcases premium Cabernet Sauvignons sourced from sites like Martha’s Vineyard.
Unorthodox beverages include wine infused with rose petals poured from clay amphorae and a beer infused with geranium. A gourmet Mediterranean market opens onsite in August, offering food to go or consume alongside wines. For children, there is a selection of grape juices available.
Brand & Industry History
Flora Springs was originally named after the mother of former owner John Komes, whose parents bought the historic site in the late ’70s. In 2020, the Komes family sold the estate and vineyard to the Cathiards, who kept the brand and its Hwy 29 tasting room. Jean-Charles Boisset and Gina Gallo-Boisset purchased the property in December 2024, marking the first time the couple has owned a winery together. The purchase was partly intended to leave something behind for their twin daughters.
What This Means
Flora Springs presents an approachable alternative to typical Napa Valley tasting rooms criticized for being too expensive and exclusive. Tastings are priced under $50, and the venue accepts children and dogs. The new Mediterranean marketplace features a fresco of Poseidon and other gods, departing from the American food-focused Oakville Grocery previously owned by Boisset.
Consumer Takeaway
Visitors can order wine by the glass or bottle, or choose one of four flights priced between $40 and $125. The experience includes private tastings in the caves with cheese and charcuterie, ideal for groups. Guests can sit within semi-private mini enclaves in the courtyard decorated with a butterfly-themed mosaic.
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