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.
Sourced from eight different vineyards including Kanzler and Gap’s Crown.
Crimson in color. 14.5% ABV. Gorgeous nose of black fruits, cloves and sarsaparilla. Full bodied and fruit forward with exquisite acidity. Plush and decadent. Sappy and well balanced. Black cherry, boysenberry and cherry cola on the palate. The finish is long and seamless. Stunning Pinot Noir that is graceful and full of flavor. So good! Best over the next 2-3 years.
My rating: 94 points.
The 2019 version will be released to mailing list members early next 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.