Sean Thackrey was a true iconoclast of Californian wine, a self-taught winemaker, art dealer, and thinker who believed that wine was made “by taste, not by theory.” Working from his small Bolinas winery surrounded by eucalyptus trees and Pacific air, Thackrey blended grapes not by region or tradition, but by feel, guided by intuition and ancient texts. His wines have cult followings worldwide for their unmistakable character, perfume and soulful depth. Pleiades was his most free-spirited creation.
There is no fixed recipe. Each vintage is a different blend of multiple varietals from multiple vintages and multiple sites, always chosen to make the wine delicious right now. Pleiades XXXI includes (but is not limited to) Sangiovese, Tempranillo, Carignan and Pinot Noir, all harmonised into something seamless and expressive.
Gorgeously aromatic and constantly evolving in the glass. Expect wild berries, stewed plum and cherry with warm spice, dried rose, forest floor and incense A silky, textural palate with gentle tannins and a long, savoury finish It’s medium-bodied, layered, warm-hearted and quietly exotic.
Pairs beautifully with roast duck or chicken, charcuterie & aged cheeses, mushroom pasta, slow-cooked lamb or just conversation late into the night