A Masterclass in Pinot Noir with Kosta Browne’s Julien Howsepian

In this episode of The Vint Wine Podcast, we sit down with Julien Howsepian, lead winemaker at Kosta Browne, one of California’s most acclaimed producers of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Julien shares how his path led from UC Davis to becoming a key figure in American fine wine and explains what makes the Kosta Browne portfolio so distinct—from Russian River to Santa Rita Hills, and even Burgundy.

🍇 Julien’s journey from economics major to head winemaker—and how a brewery in Pennsylvania helped shape his approach to winery logistics and efficiency.
🌍 The regional diversity of Kosta Browne’s portfolio, including Russian River, Sonoma Coast, Anderson Valley, Santa Lucia Highlands, Santa Rita Hills, Oregon’s Willamette Valley, and Burgundy.
🍷 What makes wines from Treehouse, Gaps Crown, Keefer Ranch, Shea, and Cerise vineyards stand out—and how Kosta Browne brings out their unique voices.
🛠️ The role of fermentation vessels—stainless steel, oak, and concrete—in shaping texture, aromatic lift, and style across the range.
🔬 Why Kosta Browne focuses on purity, place, and structure, and how Julien uses small-lot fermentation and non-interventionist winemaking to highlight terroir.

A must-listen for fans of Pinot Noir, site-driven winemaking, and the evolution of modern California wine & beyond.

🎧 Listen now and explore the Kosta Browne wines at vintmarketplace.com

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to the Vent Wine Podcast
00:37 Winemaker Interviews and News
01:34 Entrepreneur News and Wine Releases
04:41 Champagne Masters and Non-Vintage Favorites
11:37 Interview with Julian Halian of Costa Brown
22:41 The Challenge of Logistics in the Wine Business
23:15 Learning Efficiency from Samuel Adams Brewery
25:40 Implementing Efficient Processes at the Winery
26:17 Specific Examples of Efficiency in Winemaking
27:22 The Importance of Organization During Harvest
29:42 Exploring the Wines of Costa Brown
31:53 The Evolution of Costa Brown's Wine Portfolio
39:01 Unique Characteristics of Different Vineyards
42:44 Comparing Pinot Noir from Different Regions
49:37 Impact of Different Fermentation Vessels
51:59 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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!