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.
I opened this wine as the news was coming out regarding the Corona Virus and our world changed forever. I plan on opening a good bottle every night until we get through this. I invite you to join me. If you do please feel free to tag me on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.
Keefer Ranch is located in the Green Valley appellation in the southwestern corner of the Russian River Valley.
Crimson in color. 14.3% ABV. Pretty nose of rich red fruits, cloves, sarsaparilla and forest floor. Silky and plush. Medium body and well balanced with exceptional acidity. Cherry, boysenberry, baking spices and a touch of earth on the palate. Tremendous length on the finish. Exceptional Pinot Noir. All the accolades are so well deserved. Best over the next 1-2 years.
My rating: 96 points.
The 2018 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.