Malbec 2023

Points: 98 | Amador County | Limited Vintage
Vol.
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14.2
%
ML.
Cellarbeast bottle icon
ml
Type.
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Red
Regular Price
$
54.99
Wine Club Pricing
$
50.99
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Candy Mountain AVA | 14 Months Minnesota Oak | Limited Release

Distinctly expressive, our 2023 Malbec from Candy Mountain AVA showcases bold aromas of blackberry, blueberry compote, and cracked pepper. Aged 14 months in 25% new Minnesota oak—our only wine to feature American oak—it delivers a full-bodied profile with firm tannins, toasted spice, and a long, structured finish. Limited and powerful, this is Malbec with altitude and attitude.

About this Wine

ABV: 14.2

ML: 750

AVA: Candy Mountain AVA (Candy Mountain Vineyard)

Oaking/Aging Notes: 14 months in 25% New Minnesota Oak

Why You'll Love this Wine

Distinctly Bold and Expressive: Overflowing with ripe blackberry, blueberry compote, and hints of black pepper, this Malbec delivers rich, layered fruit grounded by firm tannins and a touch of spice from its unique Minnesota oak aging.

A First-Ever Release: Our debut vintage from Candy Mountain AVA, the 2023 harvest offered optimal ripeness and concentration, showcasing the power, structure, and elegance this small-but-mighty appellation is known for.

Made for the Table: From smoked brisket to grilled lamb chops or aged Manchego, this wine’s depth and structure make it a standout companion for hearty, flavor-packed dishes.

Recommended Food Pairings

Smoked Brisket: This Malbec’s bold blackberry core and firm tannins pair seamlessly with the rich, smoky depth of slow-cooked brisket.

Grilled Lamb Chops: Herb-crusted lamb finds harmony in the wine’s dark fruit and toasted spice, elevating both the meat and the wine.

Aged Manchego or Gorgonzola: The wine’s structure and subtle oak tones complement the salty intensity of aged cheeses, creating a powerful and balanced bite.

Winemakers Notes

Winemaker: Matt Check, Head Winemaker

Winemaker's Notes:

The 2023 Candy Mountain Malbec marks our first release from this acclaimed AVA, and it delivers with distinction. Grown on elevated, west-facing slopes, this fruit offered remarkable intensity and structure from the start. Aged for 14 months in 25% new Minnesota oak—a first for our program—the wine presents dense layers of blackberry, blueberry, and baking spice, wrapped in firm tannins and subtle earth. Bold yet balanced, this Malbec is a powerful new addition to the Cellar Beast portfolio, and a compelling expression of Candy Mountain’s promise.

Product Description
Tasting Notes
About This Wine

Cellar Beasts Barrel from the Barrel Room Andreas PA
2023 Candy Mountain Malbec bottle – Cellar Beast Winehouse premium Washington red wine aged in Minnesota oak
Malbec 2023
Malbec 2023
Malbec 2023

Special Notes about Region and Varietal

Sourced from the rugged, west-facing slopes of Candy Mountain Vineyard, within Washington’s smallest and most exclusive AVA; this 2023 Malbec reflects the intensity and precision of the site. The vineyard’s high elevation, rapid air drainage, and extended sun exposure foster thick-skinned berries with concentrated dark fruit, firm structure, and natural acidity. The 2023 growing season provided ideal warmth and dry conditions, allowing for extended hang time and full phenolic development. As our only wine aged in Minnesota oak, this vintage stands apart, melding the bold character of Candy Mountain fruit with a spice-laced richness that speaks to both innovation and terroir.

Aaron Gratch sampling 2023 Malbec from a barrel at Candy Mountain Vineyard – premium Washington wine by Cellar Beast Winehouse

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