In 2020, Kosta Browne introduced their “Burgundy Series” of wines from five separate appellations in Burgundy, France including Beaune, Gevrey-Chambertin, Volnay, Pommard and a Chardonnay from Meursault. According to Kosta Browne winemaker Julien Howsepian, they partnered with an undisclosed established winery in Côte de Beaune. The wines were vinified and aged in Burgundy while Kosta Browne dictated the barrel aging program. The wines were transported by temperature-controlled containers to Kosta Browne in Sebastopol, California, analyzed and then bottled.

The 2023 Kosta Browne Beaune Premier Cru Pinot Noir showcases a glistening ruby shadow with ethereal aromas of lavender, dried herbs and violets. There is intense focus on terroir in this Beaune with a true sense of place. On the palate cherry liqueur, framboise, blood orange and anise meld together with subtle notes of wet earth and loam in the background. There is a level of purity and elegance that makes this wine distinctly French at every turn with elegance and purity of fruit. It remains seamless with velvety tannins that linger into a caressing finish. The true potential of this wine will be more obvious with additional aging.

Joe DiMaggio / W Peter Hoyne