2018 marks the first vintage for former Kosta Browne owner and winemaker, Michael Browne, making wine at their property in Russian River Valley. It was also an ideal growing season for Pinot Noir. Spring was cooler than recent vintages which led to a longer bloom with consistently good fruit set and generous yields. Summer brought moderate temperatures with chilled foggy mornings and much fewer heat spikes allowing for even and extended ripening time. Michael and his team made multiples passes through the vineyard during harvest, without having to rush due to pending heatwaves or storms. The 2018 offers “deep pomegranate and raspberry aromas, accented with violet and hibiscus flowers and hints of tangerine peel, vanilla bean, and a touch of cassis. On the palate, there is fresh strawberry with a slight dash of cream, crisp bing cherry, with a moderate touch of Red Delicious apple skin and all the goodness that it brings. It’s rich and round with a satin, velvety texture.” 2011 was the first vintage of CIRQ after Michael sold Kosta Browne.