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January 21, 2025
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Matt Check

Cellar Beast Pinot Noir Reserve – An Elegant, Smooth Red Wine with Balanced Flavors

Explore the rich history and tasting notes of Cellar Beast's Pinot Noir Reserve. Perfect for any occasion. Order your bottle today!

Cellar Beast Pinot Noir Reserve – An Elegant, Smooth Red Wine with Balanced Flavors

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Cellar Beast Winehouse proudly presents its Pinot Noir Reserve, a premium wine that combines the elegance and complexity of this beloved grape variety with the artistry of masterful winemaking. Known for its ripe cherry and dark fruit flavors, this medium-bodied red wine offers a smooth texture and refined balance, appealing to seasoned wine drinkers and those just beginning their journey into fine wines.

This wine was crafted with care from the Riverbench Vineyard of the Santa Maria Valley AVA, California. Previous vintages were sourced from the Willamette Valley AVA in the Eola-Amity Hills, and upcoming vintages will be sourced from the Dundee Hills sub-AVAs. This wine embodies the spirit of exceptional terroir and meticulous craftsmanship. Whether hosting a dinner party, searching for the perfect gift, or simply treating yourself,  Cellar Beast wines are ideal.

Explore our 2022 Pinot Noir Reserve and experience the elegance for yourself.

The History and Origins of Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir is among the world’s oldest and most revered grape varieties. Its history dates back over 1,000 years to the Burgundy wine region of France. Known as the “noble grape,” Pinot Noir has been cultivated for centuries to produce premium wines celebrated for their elegance, complexity, and ability to express the nuances of their terroir.

Its name derives from the French words for "pine" (pin) and "black" (noir), reflecting the grape's tight, pinecone-shaped clusters and dark skin. As the varietal spread globally, it found new expressions in cooler climates like Oregon’s Willamette Valley, California’s Sonoma Coast, Santa Maria Valley, and even regions like Australia’s Mornington Peninsula.

Cellar Beast’s Pinot Noir Reserve's previous and future vintages honor this illustrious legacy. They combine traditional winemaking practices with the unique characteristics of Oregon’s Dundee Hills and Eola-Amity Hills. These regions are renowned for their balanced acidity, vibrant dark fruit flavors, and elegant soft tannins, creating a wine worthy of its noble roots.

Learn more about the art of wine production on our Wine Insights page.

Tasting Notes of Pinot Noir Reserve

Flavor Profile: Cherry, Raspberry, and Rich Oak Notes

Cellar Beast Pinot Noir wine enchants the senses with its bright garnet color and an aromatic bouquet of ripe cherry, raspberry, and hints of blackberry fruit flavors. On the palate, these bold fruit flavors are complemented by subtle notes of vanilla, oak barrel, and a touch of black pepper, creating a harmonious and complex wine.

The wine’s refreshing acidity and silky, soft tannins create an approachable, elegant, balanced structure. The finish lingers gracefully, leaving behind whispers of dark fruits, hints of spice, and a touch of earthiness, making it a perfect companion to various meals.

This medium-bodied wine captures the essence of Santa Maria Valley’s renowned terroir, delivering a versatile and sophisticated wine.

The Winemaking Process Behind Cellar Beast Pinot Noir Reserve

How Our Vineyard and Techniques Shape the Pinot Noir

At Cellar Beast Winehouse, our Pinot Noir Reserve is crafted meticulously, reflecting our commitment to traditional, minimal-intervention winemaking. We sourced premium grapes from the renowned Riverbench Vineyard in Santa Maria Valley, California, known for its cool climate and well-drained soils, ideal for producing balanced and expressive wines.

Upon arrival at our Andreas, Pennsylvania facility, the grapes undergo whole-berry fermentation, a technique that preserves the freshness and purity of the fruit. This method allows for gentle maceration, enhancing the wine's complexity without over-extraction.

Following fermentation, the wine is aged for nine months in French oak barrels with 17% new oak. This careful selection of aging vessels imparts subtle earthy notes and a silky finish, complementing the wine's bright strawberry aromas.

Our dedication to sustainable practices and minimal intervention ensures that each bottle authentically represents its unique origin terroir, delivering a refined and elegant wine experience.

Discover more about our winemaking techniques here.

Pinot Noir vines in bud break during early spring

Perfect Food Pairings for Cellar Beast Pinot Noir Reserve

Pinot Noir’s versatility makes it an excellent choice for pairing with a wide variety of foods. The smooth texture and balanced profile of our Pinot Noir Reserve complement both elegant meals and casual fare:

  • Grilled Salmon or Roasted Chicken: The wine’s bright acidity balances the richness of these dishes.
  • Soft Cheeses: Brie and Camembert pair beautifully with the wine’s creamy mouthfeel and fruity flavors.
  • Hearty Stews: The wine’s subtle earthiness and spice flavors enhance the depth of flavors in stews like coq au vin.

Looking for more inspiration? Visit our wine and food pairing guide for additional ideas.

Why Choose Cellar Beast Winehouse Pinot Noir Reserve?

This smooth wine is a true testament to quality wines. From our commitment to sustainable practices to our focus on crafting premium wines, every step of our process reflects our passion for excellence. As a woman- and veteran-owned winery, we produce wines that honor tradition while embracing innovation.

Whether you’re a wine aficionado or simply looking for a luxurious bottle to share, our Pinot Noir Reserve delivers unmatched elegance and sophistication. Explore our Quarterly wine deliveries and exclusive access to reserve wines through our Wine Club Membership.

Order Your Bottle of Cellar Beast Pinot Noir Reserve Today!

Indulge in the elegance of Cellar Beast Pinot Noir Reserve—a wine that combines ripe cherry, dark fruit, softer tannins, and a smooth texture into a perfectly balanced experience. Whether planning a dinner party, seeking the perfect gift, or looking to elevate your collection, this premium wine is the ideal choice.

Don’t wait—order your bottle of Cellar Beast Pinot Noir Reserve 2022 today and experience the craftsmanship that sets us apart. Cheers!

About the Author

Matt Check, the visionary co-founder of Cellar Beast Winehouse, brings expertise and passion to every bottle crafted at the winery. With years of hands-on experience in winemaking and an unwavering dedication to sustainable practices, Matt is committed to creating exceptional wines that reflect the unique terroirs of their origins. As a connoisseur of fine wine and a leader in the industry, he shares his knowledge and insights to help wine enthusiasts deepen their appreciation for each sip. Matt has won numerous awards for his Pinot Noir, including a recent Gold Medal from the Finger Lakes International Wine and Spirits Competition. Learn more about Matt and his journey at Cellar Beast Winehouse.

Cellar Beast Pinot Noir Reserve – An Elegant, Smooth Red Wine with Balanced Flavors

Matt Check is the Head Winemaker and Co-Founder of Cellar Beast Winehouse, with over a decade of expertise spanning winemaking, sommelier training, and wine education. A certified Level IV Sommelier from the Wine School of Philadelphia, Matt’s dedication to crafting exceptional wines shines through his ability to blend traditional techniques with innovative approaches. Matt has built deep connections with premier vineyards across top AVAs like Red Mountain and Willamette Valley, sourcing world-class fruit to create terroir-driven wines. His critically acclaimed creations, such as The Dark Angel (97 points, Sunset International Wine Competition), exemplify his commitment to precision and artistry. Beyond winemaking, Matt is a passionate wine educator and industry-respected author. With his extensive background in blind tastings, wine pairing, and wine program design, he brings unparalleled insight into each vintage. From California to Chile, his work celebrates the diversity and richness of global wine regions. Discover the craftsmanship and innovation behind Matt’s award-winning wines at Cellar Beast Winehouse.