California Pinot devotees have made Kosta Browne one of the most sought after wines in the world. The newest and rarest bottling now is co-founder Michael Browne’s personal project called CIRQ, an homage to the Summers he spent at a ‘Circus Camp’ in his youth. For perspective, we sampled the inaugural 2011 CIRQ release as well as the 2012 vintage. Both were delicious, well-balanced gems offering delightful, dark fruit flavors meriting 95 – 96 point reviews (see ratings sections for full notes). The highlight of our vertical was the upcoming release of 2013 CIRQ. This was one of the most impressive California Pinots our team has enjoyed in many moons. The palate featured a cornucopia of deftly-balanced flavors including pomegranate, kirsch, black tea, Indian spices, roasted herbs, and a captivating finish (60+ seconds) that offered savory hints of creamy oak, black truffles and white pepper across a velvety smooth texture. Enjoy tonight (after decanting) or anytime through 2023. Overall, the portfolio of CIRQ Pinots display an intriguing combination of sumptuous dark fruit while maintaining an ethereal quality rarely found in Pinots outside the rarified air (and four digit prices) of Grand Cru Burgundy. Bravo!

The only downside to this new venture is the micro-production means few collectors will experience this highly sought after Pinot so we encourage you to jump aboard given the opportunity!

CIRQ Winery

California Pinot devotees have made Kosta Browne one of the most sought after wines in the world. The newest and rarest bottling now is co-founder Michael Browne’s personal project called CIRQ, an homage to the Summers he spent at a ‘Circus Camp’ in his youth.