Black Star Farms

Don Coe, managing partner of Black Star Farms in northwest Michigan, created the Arcturos brand name with a regional connection. Arcturos is a bright-in-summer, red giant star. In Greek, however, the name translates to “guardian of the bear” and relates to the Sleeping Bear Dunes on Michigan’s northwestern shoreline.

In this wine, the taster finds that Arcturos is not only guardian of the bear but of Leelanau Peninsula Merlot. With aromas of dark cherries, dark berries, black raspberry and black plum, the wine can be described as fruity but not a fruit bomb. Flavors are sophisticated and mirror aromas with the addition of coffee bean and dark chocolate hints. If you thought that Michigan was all about white wines, and in particular Riesling, this 100 percent Merlot will surprise your tastebuds.

Round and refined with a generous length, it matches cow’s milk cheeses, such as Edam or Gouda. Those who can purchase Leelanau Cheese Company’s Raclette (sold at Black Star Farms), have a pairing treat in store. Additionally, it harmonizes favorably with classic suggestions, such as grilled lamb chops in a rosemary-infused marinade, grilled rack of lamb, Michigan cherry-glazed pork tenderloin or barbecued baby back ribs with a Michigan cherry barbecue sauce.

Reviewed February 27, 2008 by Eleanor & Ray Heald.