ST. HELENA, Calif., (April 2, 2025) — It is with deep and profound sadness that we announce the passing of our longtime winemaker and friend, Enrico Bertoz following a courageous battle with cancer.
Enrico’s journey began in Italy’s northern Friuli region, where his passion for winemaking was deeply rooted. In 1998, he brought that passion to California, eventually making Napa Valley his home in 2005. His dedication to the craft led him to become the winemaker for Flora Springs Winery and a consulting winemaker for Precision Wine Company, where his influence was immeasurable.
Enrico joined Flora Springs in 2008, bringing with him not only immense talent but a deep respect for the land and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Over the years, he became the heart of our winemaking team, helping to shape the identity of Flora Springs. Through his artistry, intuition, and steady leadership, his influences from a childhood spent in the Friuli wine region of northern Italy have shaped our wines throughout the years.
His thoughtful approach to winemaking, his humility, his vivid personality, and his generous spirit made him not only a trusted colleague, but a dear friend to all of us. Enrico believed in the quiet magic of the vineyard, the rhythm of the seasons, and the idea that wine could tell a story greater than ourselves. He came from an Old-World perspective, where the grower and the winemaker are one entity and this showed in every vintage, every barrel, and every bottle.
Enrico was, without question, the most talented winemaker we have ever had the privilege of working with. His expertise spanned every facet of winemaking—from viticulture to fermentation, barrel aging to blending—and he approached each step with an artistry and precision that were truly unmatched. His knowledge was vast, his intuition remarkable, and his love for the craft undeniable.
More than just a gifted winemaker, Enrico was a mentor, a colleague, and a cherished friend. The lessons he imparted and the wines he crafted will live on as a testament to his extraordinary skill and passion. His presence will be deeply missed—especially on those of us fortunate enough to have worked alongside him—will never be forgotten.
We are forever grateful for his dedication and legacy, and we will continue to honor his memory through the wines he so lovingly crafted through the leadership of Gina Gallo and Jean Charles Boisset.
Rest in peace, Enrico. Your legacy is forever in the vineyards, in our wines, and in our hearts. Enrico Bertoz is survived by his Wife (Letizia) & Two Sons (Benedetto and Francesco).
– With heartfelt gratitude, The Flora Springs Family.
A gofundme page has been created to support Enrico’s family, donate to the Bertoz Family.
