2023 Brown Estate - Chaos Theory Proprietary Red (750ml)

Brown Estate was founded in 1996 in Napa Valley's Chiles Valley by the Brown family, the region's first Black-owned estate winery. The family debuted its inaugural vintages at the ZAP Grand Tasting in 2000, building a reputation grounded in their signature Zinfandel. Winemaker David Brown created Chaos Theory as a one-off blend for the Premiere Napa Valley trade auction, and it has since become a signature part of the estate's lineup.

The 2023 vintage blends 26 percent Cabernet Franc, 23 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, 23 percent Zinfandel, 22 percent Merlot, and 6 percent Barbera from estate and grower vineyards across Sonoma County. Each variety ferments separately before blending, letting each vintage take its own shape. It then spends six months in French oak, about half new, rounding the tannins while keeping the fruit at the center.

The glass shows a deep garnet core with a perfumed nose of Rainier cherry, blackberry compote, winter spice, and rose petal, giving way to brandied cherry and a touch of cream. The palate is silky and medium to full bodied, carrying dark fruit, cocoa, and baking spice to a smooth, concentrated finish. It pairs nicely with braised short ribs, spiced sausage, or aged cheddar.