Lehigh Valley Winery Pairs Culinary Innovation with Veteran Entrepreneurship

Andreas, PA – November 10, 2025 – In Pennsylvania’s flourishing Lehigh Valley AVA, Cellar Beast Winehouse is forging a unique path, blending exquisite culinary experiences with a powerful narrative of veteran entrepreneurship and a dedication to regional tourism. The woman- and veteran-owned winery is launching its Winter Pairing Dinner Series, a seasonal culinary adventure designed to showcase both its limited-release wines and the talents of local chefs.

Beginning December 30th with a “New Year’s Eve Eve” dinner curated by acclaimed chef Bill Murphy of Ash Chase Culinary, the series promises an intimate and immersive experience limited to just 45 guests per event. Subsequent dinners will feature Scott Reichert (Scott Dees Catering), Bobby Howell (Hosted by Howell), and John Abuela (Composed Catering), highlighting the collaborative spirit at the heart of the winery’s vision.

“We’re not just offering wine tastings; we’re crafting experiences,” says a winery representative. “Each dinner is a journey, designed to pair the nuances of our wines with the artistry of our local culinary partners.” The focus on small-batch production and traditional French winemaking techniques sets Cellar Beast apart in a region traditionally known for sweeter varietals.

A Rising Tide for Pennsylvania Wine Country

The Lehigh Valley has rapidly emerged as a significant force in the Pennsylvania wine industry, ranking fourth in the state for wine production. The industry supports over 10,000 jobs and contributes billions to the state economy annually, with tourism playing a vital role. Cellar Beast is capitalizing on this momentum, attracting visitors and showcasing the region’s potential.

“The Valley is experiencing a renaissance in terms of culinary and wine tourism,” says an industry analyst familiar with the region. “Wineries like Cellar Beast are not just businesses; they’re anchors for local economies and drivers of tourism.”

Cellar Beast's commitment to quality is evident in its growing list of accolades, including multiple awards at the American Fine Wine Competition and the Sunset International Wine Competition. These awards demonstrate a commitment to producing wines that can compete on a national level.

Beyond the Bottle: A Story of Service and Entrepreneurship

While the exquisite wines and culinary pairings are central to the winery’s appeal, the story of its founders adds another layer of depth. Co-owners Kim and Aaron McCullough founded Cellar Beast in 2021, blending their passions for wine with Aaron’s background as a former US Army Captain and engineer.

“The discipline and strategic thinking I learned in the Army have been invaluable in building this business,” says a winery representative. “We approached it with a meticulous plan and a commitment to quality.”

The McCulloughs aren’t alone in their veteran entrepreneurship within the Pennsylvania wine industry; other veteran-owned wineries like Eagles Rest Cellars further demonstrate the strong connection between military service and agricultural innovation.

“There’s a natural alignment between the skills developed in the military – leadership, problem-solving, resilience – and the challenges of running a farm or winery,” explains a consultant specializing in agricultural entrepreneurship. “Veterans often bring a unique perspective and a strong work ethic.”

A Boutique Experience in a Growing Market

Cellar Beast's focus on small-batch production—with some wines limited to just 141 cases—positions it squarely within the growing market for boutique wines. This commitment to quality over quantity appeals to discerning consumers seeking unique and authentic experiences.

“Consumers are increasingly interested in knowing the story behind their wine,” explains a sommelier. “They want to connect with the people who make it and understand the process.”

The winery's commitment to sustainability also resonates with environmentally conscious consumers. By employing minimal intervention techniques and focusing on quality over quantity, Cellar Beast minimizes its environmental impact.

Looking Ahead

The Winter Pairing Dinner Series is just the latest step in Cellar Beast’s journey to establish itself as a leading boutique winery in Pennsylvania. With its commitment to quality, sustainability, and community engagement, the winery is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for unique and authentic wine experiences.

“We’re not just building a winery; we’re building a community,” says a winery representative. “We want to create a place where people can come together, enjoy great wine and food, and connect with the land.”

The success of Cellar Beast serves as a powerful example of how innovation, entrepreneurship, and a commitment to community can drive growth in the Pennsylvania wine industry and beyond. With the Winter Pairing Dinner Series set to launch in December, the winery is poised to continue its journey, one exquisite glass of wine at a time.