Kosta Browne was founded in the late nineties by Dan Kosta and Michael Browne. In 2009 controlling interest was sold to Vincraft for close to $40 million. In 2015 J.W. Childs Associates, a Boston-based private equity firm, bought out Vincraft. Most recently Kosta Browne was purchased by Duckhorn Wine Company. With these investments have come numerous changes including a new Winery (Gallery) in Sebastopol and the purchase of Keefer and Cerise Vineyards. A primary focus at Kosta Browne has always been the direct to consumer (DTC) relationship. DTC accounts for close to 85% of the current 30,000 case annual production. The waiting list for the Appellation wines is 18 months long and for the coveted 4 Barrel Pinot Noir there is a 12 year waiting list. More changes are in the works as Kosta Browne strives to stay relevant for the next generation of consumers while preserving the magic that has made KB special for so many years.
Kanzler Vineyard is located in western Sonoma County, just south of Bodega Highway on Sander’s Road and was planted in 1996.
Ruby red in color. 14.7% ABV. Sublime nose of red fruits, cloves, baking spices and earth. Medium to full bodied with exquisite acidity. Exceptionally well balanced. Ripe, concentrated and supple. Black cherry, black raspberry and Asian Spices on the palate. The finish is long and plush. Just a beautiful bottle of Kosta Browne that has aged gloriously. Best over the next 1-2 years.
My rating: 94 points.
The 2017 version will be released to mailing list members in the Fall of this year.
I blogged about Kosta Browne recently in Exciting Changes at Kosta Browne and Too Much Being Made of a Change in Style at Kosta Browne.