Kosta Browne’s origin story is one of genuine American grit: two friends, Dan Kosta and Michael Browne, working at a Santa Rosa restaurant who pooled their tip money to produce their first barrel of Pinot Noir in 1997.

That scrappy beginning eventually culminated in a landmark moment in 2011, when their 2009 Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir was named Wine Spectator’s #1 Wine of the Year, cementing the winery’s reputation as a benchmark producer.

Today, under head winemaker Julien Howsepian, Kosta Browne continues to push boundaries, expanding its portfolio into Oregon’s Willamette Valley and even the grand cru vineyards of Burgundy.

The 2023 Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir is a compelling expression of why this winery commands such a stellar reputation and devoted following. The grapes are drawn from vineyards spanning the rugged coastline to the sheltered inland slopes in primarily Goldridge loam soil (Gap’s Crown, Marshall, Crane Canyon, Pepperwood, Pratt-Sexton, and Thorn Ridge), and aged for 16 months in a mix of new French oak and neutral oak.

On the nose, a sublime balance of rich earth, dark fruit, ocean breeze, and red raspberry bouquet opens and gently segues to hints of cedar, violets, and cinnamon on a full-bodied palate. The finish is long and spicy.

This is absolutely delicious now, but will also reward those with the steely patience required to keep it cellared for 5 – 10 years.

By Peter Pretzer