Sean Thackrey continues to fashion compellingly extracted, rich, concentrated wines from old vineyards in Napa Valley. The Pleiades is usually a multi-vintage blend of Syrah, Mourvedre, Grenache, Carignane, and Petite Sirah. Thus, in some years a non-vintage cuvee is released. Both of these Pleiades are excellent wines, although the non-vintage cuvee is slightly more complex. They possess considerable richness, gobs of red and black fruits, intriguing mineral and earth scents, and long, ripe, concentrated finishes. Drinkable now, they should last for another 5-6 years. These robust, mouth-filling wines are to be savored with flavorful food. Tel. and Fax (415) 868-1781

The Pleiades Lot XIII is a blend of Syrah, Barbera, Zinfandel, Pinot Noir, Mourvedre, and Grenache. Lot XIII is decidedly southern Rhone-like. Pepper, tobacco, spice box, sweet kirsch, and berry fruit jump from the glass of this rich, medium to full-bodied, supple, complex red. Drink it over the next 2-3 years. Tel. (415) 868-1781

The Pleiades Lot XII, a blend of Syrah, Barbera, Petite Sirah, Carignan, Sangiovese, and Zinfandel, tastes like a perverted Italian Piedmontese effort. Earthy, animal-like aromas are followed by nicely textured, sweet berries, cherries, Chinese black tea, and tobacco characteristics. This cleverly crafted, seductive, complex, delicious offering should be consumed over the next several years. Tel. (415) 868-1781

This wine, a non-vintage blend of Syrah, Zinfandel, Carignan, Petit Sirah, Sangiovese, Nebbiolo, Grenache, Mourvedre, and Merlot, displays a light to medium ruby color, followed by a spicy, cherry, earthy-scented nose, medium body, a lush texture, and a soft, fruity finish. It is a tasty bistro-styled red to drink over the next 1-2 years. Tel. (415) 868-1781