5 Questions with a Winemaker: Julien Howsepian, Kosta Browne - Sonoma, CA

In this episode of Five Questions with a Winemaker, presented by the Vint Marketplace, we sit down with Julien Howsepian, Head Winemaker at Kosta Browne, one of California’s most celebrated names in Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Known for their single-vineyard expressions and dedication to regional identity, Kosta Browne has become a benchmark producer for American cool-climate wines.

Julien shares:

🌎 Their wine portfolio spans wines made from vineyards across the globe including California (Russian River Valley, Sonoma Coast, Santa Lucia Highlands, Sta. Rita Hills, Anderson Valley), Burgundy, and Oregon’s Willamette Valley, focusing exclusively on Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

🔍 A relentless pursuit of quality and authenticity, crafting wines that reflect place and connect emotionally with wine lovers at every stage of their journey.

🍇 His personal inspiration from quality wines across the globe, and how curiosity and discovery shape both his winemaking and the experience Kosta Browne offers to collectors.

📆 Reflections on standout vintages—2021 for its purity and ageability, and 2020 for the adversity of wildfires and the pride of staying true to their identity through it all.

🔭 His vision for the future of Kosta Browne: continuing to refine and elevate within their current portfolio, building on domestic success to reach more wine lovers around the world

A must-listen for fans of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, this episode captures the craftsmanship and clarity behind one of America’s most admired wineries.

🎧 Stay tuned for the full-length episode with Julien Howsepian coming soon.

The Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email billy@sommeliermedia.com.

Cheers!