This powerful blend is comprised of the perfect amounts of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah from our Estate Vineyard in the mountains of the Atlas Peak Appellation. This wine opens with aromas of raspberry, cinnamon and chocolate covered cherries, while the palate displays flavors of bright red cherries, strawberries and mocha. With firm and elegant tannins and a long structured finish, this food wine pairs well with rich meat dishes including Beef Bourgogne or Braised Short Ribs.

97 Point Review - Sommelier and Wine Critic Chris Sawyer 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.