Today’s Astrale e Terra 2009 Arcturus Napa Valley Red Blend is an exceptional wine that we couldn’t wait to unveil. Get ready for a treat!

Crafted from some of the top fruit sources found on Atlas Peak, today’s wine is a graceful powerhouse. Today’s wine is a bit shy at first, but opens up beautifully after a little decanting to reveal deep fruit, earth, and spice characteristics.

Give this wine a chance to breathe, and you’ll be the happiest camper around. Just be sure to share a little bit with your friends - this wine is worth bragging about!

This wine was rated an astounding 97 points by Christopher Sawyer. Here is his glowing review of the wine from just yesterday:

Astrale e Terra 2009 Arcturus Red Wine, Napa Valley

Climbing a mountain is not an easy task. But most of the time when you get to the top,the priceless view is worth there effort. That was the idea the owners of the Astrale e Terra Vineyard had in mind in 1997 when they purchased a pristine piece of high-elevation property on Atlas Peak in southeastern Napa Valley. To celebrate the clear view of the stars above the fog; the proprietary red wine from the estate is called Arcturus—the name of the brightest star in the Northern Celestial Hemisphere.

As expected, the current release of the 2009 Arcturus shines with a combination of power and grace. Made with Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Syrah, the wine features lofty aromas of dark berries, sage, tobacco and cedar. On the palate, the flavors are generous, with elegant notes of dark plum, blueberry, cassis, raspberry, shaved dark, chocolate, vanilla, cardamom, roasted nuts, and a soft, silky texture.

For pairings, try the Arcturus with fine cheeses, grilled portabella mushroom, sage-roasted chicken, pork chop with gorgonzola sauce, or a tender slab of roast beef.

Rating: 97 points