By: Alan McClane

n a wine world often dominated by bold Cabernet Sauvignon and plush New World styles, Cabernet Franc 2023 from Cellar Beast stands apart as a thoughtful, nuanced expression rooted in Old-World tradition. Crafted in Yakima Valley, Washington State, this small-batch release channels the elegance and savory complexity of the Loire Valley while embracing the distinct terroir of the Pacific Northwest. It is a wine designed not only for immediate enjoyment, but also for patience—one that promises to reward cellaring for a decade or more.

At 13.9% ABV and bottled in a classic 750 ml format, this Cabernet Franc is a testament to balance, restraint, and craftsmanship. From vineyard to label, every detail reflects intention, artistry, and respect for the grape.

Old-World Soul, Yakima Valley Character

Cabernet Franc is often described as Cabernet Sauvignon’s more aromatic, more expressive sibling, and in this 2023 vintage, Cellar Beast allows those qualities to shine. Inspired by Loire Valley–style Cabernet Franc, the wine emphasizes freshness, structure, and savory complexity over overt power or excessive oak.

Yakima Valley provides the ideal canvas for this approach. Known for its warm days, cool nights, and diverse soils, the AVA allows Cabernet Franc to ripen fully while retaining vibrant acidity and aromatic lift. The result is a wine that feels both European in spirit and distinctly Washington in character—refined, food-friendly, and quietly compelling.

Tasting Profile: Elegant, Savory, and Deeply Aromatic

On the nose, the Cabernet Franc 2023 immediately announces its Old-World inspiration. Violets rise gracefully from the glass, joined by layers of dark fruit—black cherry, plum skin, and hints of cassis. Beneath the fruit lies a savory core: subtle notes of fresh herbs, graphite, and earthy spice, creating aromatic depth and intrigue.

The palate is where the wine truly shines. Medium-bodied yet structured, it delivers finely grained tannins and a bright, energetic acidity that carries the flavors seamlessly. Dark berries are balanced by savory herbal tones—think thyme, bay leaf, and a whisper of green olive—adding complexity without overshadowing the fruit.

The finish is long, precise, and quietly powerful, lingering with floral echoes and mineral freshness. It’s a wine that invites contemplation rather than demanding attention, rewarding slower sipping and thoughtful pairing.

A Wine Built for Time: Aging Potential of 10+ Years

One of the most compelling aspects of this Cabernet Franc is its aging potential. While beautifully drinkable upon release, it is structured to evolve gracefully over 10 years or more. With time in the cellar, expect the floral aromatics to deepen, the fruit to integrate further, and tertiary notes—leather, dried herbs, forest floor—to emerge.

This aging capability makes the wine a versatile choice for collectors and casual enthusiasts alike. Enjoy it now for its vibrancy and freshness, or lay it down to experience its full evolution and complexity in the years ahead.

Handcrafted and Small-Batch Excellence

True to the Cellar Beast philosophy, the Cabernet Franc 2023 is handcrafted in small batches, allowing for meticulous attention at every stage of production. From vineyard selection to fermentation and aging, the process is guided by precision rather than volume.

This approach ensures that each bottle reflects the highest standards of quality and consistency. There’s a sense of intention in the wine—nothing feels rushed, overworked, or excessive. Instead, it speaks clearly of careful decisions, skilled hands, and respect for both grape and place.

Winemaker’s Vision: Matt Check

At the helm of this release is Matt Check, Head Winemaker at Cellar Beast, whose philosophy leans toward balance, authenticity, and expressive terroir. His touch is evident in the wine’s restraint and harmony. Rather than pushing the grape into a heavy, extracted style, Matt allows Cabernet Franc to express its natural elegance and savory complexity.

The result is a wine that feels honest and confident—crafted with technical expertise, yet guided by intuition and respect for Old-World tradition.

Where Art Meets Wine

Adding another layer of personality to this bottle is the label artwork, created by Assistant Winemaker Aaron Gratch. The label is more than packaging; it’s an extension of the wine’s creative spirit. Bold yet thoughtful, it mirrors the philosophy behind the bottle—where craftsmanship and creativity coexist.

This fusion of art and winemaking reinforces Cellar Beast’s identity as a producer that values expression in all forms. Every bottle tells a story, not just through taste, but through visual design and intention.

Why You’ll Love This Cabernet Franc

Aging Potential
Built to drink beautifully now, yet structured to age gracefully for 10+ years, this wine evolves in depth, nuance, and complexity over time.

Art Meets Wine
With label artwork by Assistant Winemaker Aaron Gratch, each bottle reflects the creativity and passion behind the scenes.

Handcrafted & Small-Batch
Produced with meticulous care, ensuring quality, character, and authenticity in every release.

Old-World Elegance
A Loire Valley–inspired expression that prioritizes balance, aromatics, and savory complexity over sheer power.

Recommended Food Pairings

Cabernet Franc is renowned for its versatility at the table, and this 2023 vintage is no exception. Its acidity, herbal notes, and refined tannins make it a natural partner for a wide range of dishes.

Roasted Duck with Blackberry Sauce
The richness of duck is beautifully matched by the wine’s structure, while the blackberry sauce echoes its dark fruit notes, creating a seamless and luxurious pairing.

Herb-Crusted Lamb Chops
Fresh herbs in the crust amplify the wine’s savory and floral elements, while the lamb’s natural richness balances the tannins and acidity.

Wild Mushroom Risotto
Earthy mushrooms complement the wine’s depth and Cabernet Franc structure, highlighting its subtle forest-floor and mineral nuances.

These pairings showcase how effortlessly the wine integrates with food, enhancing both the dish and the glass.

A Wine for Thoughtful Drinkers

Cabernet Franc 2023 from Cellar Beast isn’t about flash or excess—it’s about expression, balance, and authenticity. It appeals to wine lovers who appreciate nuance, who enjoy discovering layers over time, and who value wines that tell a story of place and purpose.

Whether you’re a longtime Cabernet Franc enthusiast or someone looking to explore beyond the familiar, this bottle offers an invitation into a more refined, Old-World-inspired experience—crafted with modern precision and artistic soul.

Final Thoughts

Cellar Beast’s Cabernet Franc 2023 is a standout example of what Yakima Valley can achieve when guided by Old-World sensibility and small-batch craftsmanship. Aromatic, savory, age-worthy, and deeply expressive, it is a wine that rewards attention and patience.

From its thoughtful winemaking under Matt Check, to its art-driven label by Aaron Gratch, every element aligns to create a bottle that feels complete and intentional. It’s a wine to enjoy now, to cellar for the future, and to share at the table with dishes that bring out its many dimensions.

Learn more and explore Cellar Beast wines at:
👉 https://www.cellarbeastwine.com/