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November 16, 2025
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Aaron McCullough

Cellar Beast’s Top Wines Win Big at the 2025 American Fine Wine Competition - The Invitational

Cellar Beast Winehouse, an emerging force in the boutique winery industry, has been recognized with six wine awards, including two Double Golds.

Cellar Beast’s Top Wines Win Big at the 2025 American Fine Wine Competition - The Invitational

Table of Contents

Awarded Wines Include:

  • 2022 Old Vine Zinfandel – Double Gold (95 points)
  • 2022 La Bête: A Carménère and Cabernet Sauvignon Blend – Double Gold (94 points)
  • 2022 Dark Angel: A Carménère and Petite Verdot Blend – Gold (91 points)
  • 2022 Pinot Noir – Gold (91 points)
  • 2022 Gewürztraminer – Gold (90 points)
  • 2022 Chardonnay – Silver (88 points)
Mark Pagliaro is excited about Old Vine Zinfandel winning 95 points at the competition.

“These awards are a testament to the passion that goes into every bottle of wine we craft,” said Matt Check, Head Winemaker at Cellar Beast. “To be recognized among the best in the country is an honor and fuels our drive to keep pushing boundaries in winemaking.”

Since its founding in 2021, the winery has carved out a distinct identity in the boutique winery space, known for its small-batch, minimal-intervention wines that highlight grapes from prestigious West Coast AVAs. With a focus on bold, complex dry reds, Cellar Beast has consistently earned top honors across various competitions, including:

  • 2021 Dark Angel: A Carménère and Petite Verdot Blend  – Double Gold & Best in Class, Sunset International Wine Competition with a 97-point rating
  • 2022 Primitivo – Double Gold, Finger Lakes International Wine Competition
  • 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve – Gold, Sommeliers Choice Awards

Kim McCullough, Owner of Cellar Beast Winehouse. “To receive this level of recognition from AFWC and other esteemed competitions affirms that we are on the right path as we continue to grow.”

About the American Fine Wine Competition

Founded in 2007, the American Fine Wine Competition has become one of the most prestigious invitation-only wine competitions in the U.S., recognizing top-tier winemaking across the country. Each year, an expert panel of judges, including sommeliers, journalists, and educators, evaluates over 550 wines to award top honors.

Experience Cellar Beast’s Wines

Cellar Beast Winehouse invites wine enthusiasts, industry professionals, and media to experience its acclaimed wines firsthand. Visit the winery’s tasting room, explore upcoming events, or shop online to discover why Cellar Beast continues to make waves in the world of boutique winemaking.

Cellar Beasts Wins Big at American Fine Wine Competition — FAQ

What does “cellar beasts wins big at american fine wine competition” mean for the winery?

When cellar beasts wins big at american fine wine competition, it highlights national recognition for their craftsmanship. Such awards validate the winery’s quality and winemaking philosophy. This achievement often brings increased visibility and credibility among wine enthusiasts.

Which wines earned awards when cellar beasts wins big at american fine wine competition?

Specific wines honored when cellar beasts wins big at american fine wine competition typically include standout reds, whites, or blends that impressed judges. Winners are selected for balance, complexity, and varietal expression. These awarded bottles often become customer favorites due to their proven excellence.

Why is it significant when cellar beasts wins big at american fine wine competition?

This recognition matters because the American Fine Wine Competition is known for rigorous blind tasting and expert judging. When cellar beasts wins big at american fine wine competition, it reflects how their wines stand out even among elite producers. Such accolades enhance the winery’s reputation nationwide.

How does cellar beasts winning big at american fine wine competition impact consumers?

When cellar beasts wins big at american fine wine competition, consumers gain confidence that they’re choosing high-quality wines. Awards help guide buyers toward top-performing bottles. It also encourages wine lovers to explore more offerings from the producer.

Does cellar beasts winning big at american fine wine competition influence future releases?

Recognition often inspires wineries to continue refining styles and expanding offerings. When cellar beasts wins big at american fine wine competition, it reinforces their approach and may shape future vintages. Awards also motivate winemakers to keep innovating while honoring their signature style.

Can visitors taste the wines that helped cellar beasts win big at american fine wine competition?

Yes—many wineries proudly pour their award-winning selections in the tasting room. When cellar beasts wins big at american fine wine competition, guests often have the chance to sample the celebrated bottles. Tasting them on-site offers deeper appreciation for the wines’ craftsmanship.

Cellar Beast’s Top Wines Win Big at the 2025 American Fine Wine Competition - The Invitational

Aaron McCullough, Owner and Co-Founder of Cellar Beast, brings a rich background in military service, engineering, and business to his role. A former US Army Captain with a Mechanical Engineering degree from Bucknell University and an MBA from Cornell, Aaron's experience spans logistics, finance, and business development. He now applies his strategic expertise to Cellar Beast, shaping its vision and growth. A Level 1 Wine School graduate, Aaron actively engages in the wine world by supporting tasting room events and collaborating with the winemaking team. Residing in Allentown with his family, Aaron balances his passion for wine with a full-time career in green energy development.

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