Kosta Browne Winery, the lauded label that was launched in the 1990s, just made history as San Francisco Ballet’s inaugural wine sponsor in its ninth decade.
The collaboration debuts with the 2026 season, marking an unprecedented milestone for The Barlow-based winery in Sebastopol, known so well for crafting premium pinot noir and chardonnay from very special, cool-climate vineyards.
From humble beginnings—two friends (Dan Kosta and Michael Browne) saving restaurant tips to buy their first half-ton of grapes—the winery has risen to international prominence under winemaker Julien Howsepian’s visionary guidance. Paige Dana is the estate director for Kosta Browne, having come into the world of wine by working at a bottle shop and having never looked back.
Amber Turpin: How did you get into this work?
Paige Dana: I discovered wine while working part-time at a wine bar/wine shop. A few great mentors guided me towards pursuing wine as a profession. Wine is endlessly fascinating. My curiosity into all aspects of this world has kept me constantly engaged. There is always something more and new to learn. The people that work in wine are passionate and creative; it keeps work compelling.
Did you ever have an ‘aha’ moment with a certain beverage? If so, tell us about it.
I love when, outside of a tasting setting, a wine stops me in my tracks and makes me want to spend time with it; extra time smelling, tasting and enjoying because each revisit reveals a new layer or expression. Pinot noir was one of the first wines that made me want to keep exploring the wine world to learn how the same grape can produce an amazing breadth of expressions.
Discovering that was an ‘aha’ that spurred my thirst for more knowledge. I’ve also been lucky to experience a few wines that have transcended assessment and cross over into wonder. Chasing those moments is one of the most magical parts of working in wine. The 2002 Pol Roger Cuvee Sir Winston Churchill Brut comes to mind.
What is your favorite thing to drink at home?
A truly balanced glass of chardonnay pairs well with almost every meal and is a go-to for me. I’m partial to Kosta Browne (KB) of course, particularly Bootlegger’s Hill. I’m especially thankful that KB now also makes a sparkling wine, so I frequently reach for the Kosta Browne Blanc de Blancs Keefer Ranch.
Where do you like to go out for a drink?
Underwood in Graton is a great spot for a martini.
If you were stuck on a desert island, what would you want to be drinking (besides fresh water)?
As long as I have ice, all things sparkling.
Kosta Browne Winery, 220 Morris St., Sebastopol. 707.823.7430. kostabrowne.com.
